best app for tourist attractions

30 essential travel apps every traveler needs before their next trip

When it comes to planning and taking a vacation, travelers rely on their phones now more than ever.

Travel apps are a source of inspiration and are extremely useful for booking and managing logistics — even making restaurant reservations or finding a great fitness class wherever in the world you're flying next.

From apps that help with everything from day-of hotel bookings and last-minute flight changes to those that serve as guidebooks and foreign-language dictionaries, travel is infinitely easier thanks to technology.

Apps can help you navigate a new city, make currency conversions, pack a perfect suitcase and even provide on-the-ground local expertise. Whatever you need when you hit the road, there's an app for that.

We've rounded up the most-loved apps here at TPG. Some may be obvious, and others more obscure, but either way, get ready to download.

Best apps for researching and booking trips

In addition to the apps for the airlines you fly most frequently and your favorite hotel brands, these apps can help you save money on flights and accommodations.

Hopper has changed in recent years from just offering a price prediction tool for flights to being a true online travel agency. The app helps travelers find the cheapest flights, hotels and rental cars.

Of course, Hopper also still offers its signature price prediction technology to help you plan out when to book, as well as travel protection options and a price freeze to help you lock in the lowest possible price on hotels and flights.

Kiwi is used mainly to book flights, but it also helps you book hotels (using its partnership with Booking.com) and car rentals (using its partnership with RentalCars.com).

Some of the app's most interesting features include the "Deals" section, which pulls in discounted flights, and the "Travel hacks" section, which includes options for hidden city ticketing, throwaway ticketing (making one-way flights more affordable) and free price alerts.

Hotel Tonight

A dream for last-minute travelers, Hotel Tonight ( now owned by Airbnb ) lets you book stays for the same evening up to a few months in advance in thousands of cities worldwide. Available hotel rooms are categorized into sections like basic, luxe, hip, charming and solid, so you can select what works for your vibe. Take advantage of the daily drop feature, where you swipe to find a personalized deal with a special price only valid for 15 minutes after unlocked.

At TPG, we love a good loyalty program, and HT Perks, the app's nine-level reward program, is extensive. Not unlike a video game, you "level up" by reaching specific spending thresholds on the app, and you'll gain access to perks like discounts, VIP customer support and credits. Also, your levels never expire, so you can only continue to move up.

To book home rentals instead of hotels, use the Airbnb app. After entering your destination and dates, you can filter results based on the home type, price, requisite amenities and more. If you find something you like, you can book directly through the app.

The app is ideal for managing your trips while on the road — you can access all your bookings under the "Trips" tab, where you can view your reservation (and the address or directions), contact the host or change your reservation. Once you have a booking, you can also explore and book local experiences in your destination, such as wine tastings, kayak tours, hikes, shows and concerts.

We can't talk about travel apps without mentioning the TPG App. Use it to track your credit card, airline and hotel points balances; earn points and miles efficiently through using the right credit card ; and research how many points or miles you'll need to book your dream getaway. You can even curate your own news feed so you see the news and advice that matters most to you first.

The TPG App is available for download on iOS . Android users can join the waitlist here .

Related: The TPG App has arrived — here's why you should download it now

Best apps for organizing a trip

From keeping all your documents in order to perfectly packing your suitcase without forgetting a thing, these are the best apps for organizing travel plans.

TripIt declutters your itineraries and documents by keeping them organized in one place. You can set your reservations to automatically send to TripIt, which lets you view travel confirmations, flight itineraries, tickets, hotel and Airbnb booking information, rental car reservations, ferry tickets and driving directions without ever leaving the app.

TripIt also makes it simple to share your trip plans with whoever picks you up from the airport or train station or anyone else who may need to coordinate with you. TripIt Pro subscriptions cost $49 per year and include extras like real-time flight alerts, security wait times, baggage claim information and updates on your loyalty reward programs.

Roadtrippers

Perfect for organizing that epic road trip you've always wanted to take, Roadtrippers plans out your driving route and lets you book hotels and activities along the way. The app is especially useful for finding interesting and off-the-beaten-path roadside attractions, cool restaurants and can't-miss landmarks you can bookmark.

A Roadtrippers Premium membership includes offline maps, live traffic information, overnight RV parking and more for $59.99 per year. For those looking to only venture on a few road trips per year, the app also offers a Pro ($49.99 per year) and Basic ($35.99 per year) membership.

PackPoint takes all the stress out of packing . The app shows you what to bring based on the length of your trip, the weather in your destination and any activities you're planning along the way. If you have access to laundry facilities at your destination, PackPoint even allows you to account for washing your clothes and wearing them multiple times.

Just download and install the app, type in the city you're visiting and plug in your travel details. So, stop waiting until the day before your trip — or the hours before you have to leave for the airport — and start packing now.

Best apps for navigating the airport and flights

Track flights, navigate airports and find airport lounges with these apps.

LoungeBuddy

LoungeBuddy offers access to premium airport lounges around the world, regardless of the airline or class you're flying. When you create a trip in the app and type in the credit cards you currently hold, it will tell you which lounges you have access to based on the airports you'll be transiting through and how to purchase access if you don't already have it.

You can purchase access on the day you're traveling or up to two months in advance if you're the plan-ahead type. If you prefer to search by lounge or lounge program, the app will tell you exactly what is needed to use them.

Priority Pass

Priority Pass offers access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide and provides meal vouchers at select airport restaurants across the world for an annual fee starting at $99.

Several cards, including The Platinum Card® from American Express , the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve , offer Priority Pass memberships for all cardholders (enrollment required). Otherwise, you'll have to pay an annual fee to be a member and, depending on your membership tier, a fee to enter each lounge on top of the annual fee.

To use the Priority Pass app, enter the name or code of the airport you're in, and Priority Pass will pull up the lounges or restaurants that you have access to, including photos, hours, amenities and specific location information. For more information on the Priority Pass Program and how to gain lounge access, click here . Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Related: The best credit cards for Priority Pass lounge access

FlightAware

The FlightAware app allows you to track flights online, see a live map of a flight and check on delays, cancellations and gate changes. This app is especially helpful if you have a tight connection or want to track your flight.

It's also useful when picking up friends and family at the airport, as you can track their flight and see updated landing times or delays. AvGeeks will enjoy digging into flight statistics, flight maps and community aviation discussions on the app.

Best apps to use during your flight

Timeshifter.

What better way to cure jet lag than with an app? Timeshifter actually helps you avoid jet lag long before your flight takes off and also offers inflight and post-flight suggestions. The app relies on neuroscience research about sleep and circadian rhythms to provide personalized recommendations, taking into consideration your age, gender and normal sleep patterns — as well as specifics about your trip and travel plans. Timeshifter maps out when you should avoid or seek light, take a nap or try to stay awake. It even tells you if you should consider supplementing with melatonin or caffeine.

Your first jet lag plan is free, then $9.99 per plan, or you can enjoy unlimited plans for a year for $24.99.

Flying can cause anxiety — or provide a welcome relief from constant contact with our digital devices. Either way, use travel as an opportunity to relax, meditate or listen to soothing sounds that will lull you to sleep or a deep, relaxed state. Or, perhaps, you'll simply find it helps pass the time during a long flight.

Calm offers meditations on topics such as self-awareness, calming anxiety, breathing, lowering stress levels and happiness, among others. The app also has music options for focusing, relaxing and sleeping, as well as stories for adults and content for kids.

A limited selection of meditations and music is available for free (which you can download to use when you're offline or in flight). The premium version of the app costs $14.99 per month or $69.99 annually.

OK, so Netflix isn't really a travel app, but it can be a lifesaver during a long flight on an aircraft without seatback inflight entertainment or at the airport during an unexpected flight delay or boring layover. If you have a Netflix account, the app allows you to download your favorite shows onto your device to watch offline.

Just make sure to download your shows while connected to Wi-Fi before flying and check them again preflight to make sure they haven't expired (you can usually renew any expired downloads, but you must be connected to Wi-Fi or data to do so). Monthly prices vary depending on the plan.

Another app that's not really a travel app, Spotify can still be incredibly useful during tedious travel moments — just pop in those noise-canceling headphones and listen to your favorite music, meditations, podcasts and more.

The app's Premium plans (prices vary) allow you to download all your content offline on your phone, so you'll have it during long flights or when you don't have data or Wi-Fi access. Whether you want to take a morning jog in Bali to your favorite tunes or pass the time with a podcast on the metro in Barcelona, Spotify has it all.

Best apps to use in your destination

From exchanging money and sightseeing to communicating and knowing all the local tips and tricks, you don't want to land in a foreign city for the first time without these key apps.

XE Currency Converter

The XE Currency Converter app quickly provides live, up-to-the-minute currency rates, then allows you to store and view them even when you're offline. You'll never need to wonder if you're really getting a good deal in another country if you have this app.

Google Translate

Google Translate is a translation app that allows you to do it all — translate into more than 100 languages by typing, access 59 languages offline, translate via photo, translate bilingual conversations and even use the handwriting tool to translate.

The app is simple to use, too, with icons at the top you can click on to draw, take a photo, speak or type.

Not quite sure how much to tip when traveling internationally? GlobeTips will advise you on how to tip appropriately in more than 200 countries. It also offers a tip calculator for easy math. Globe also has apps for currency conversion, unit conversion and more that may be useful for travelers.

Related: The ultimate guide to tipping while traveling

For travelers globe-trotting with friends and family members or simply splitting the cost between groups, Tricount calculates shared costs and splits bills so you don't have to think twice about who owes what. Just enter your trip and currency and invite your travel mates to join your trip.

Each time someone pays for something, you enter the amount in Tricount, and the app splits everything up. You can also snap and store photos of receipts in the app. At the end of your trip, it will show the balances of who owes who what, making it easy to settle up.

Metric Conversions

Never be baffled by Celsius temperatures or suitcase weight in kilograms again with the Metric Conversions app . Whether you're measuring flour to cook at your Airbnb, figuring out distances for your Europe road trip or deciding whether to take a sweatshirt with you during your walking tour of the Great Wall of China, this app has you covered with easy conversions in volume, weight, temperature, area and more.

Google Maps

Google Maps is essential when visiting a new city (or even for getting around your hometown). You can map locations, get directions (walking, driving, public transportation, ride-hailing services and beyond) and see how crowded your subway will be in select cities .

You can make restaurant reservations, save your favorite spots and read and write reviews of attractions, eateries, shops and more. Make sure to download specific city or area maps ahead of time for offline access if you know you'll be without internet at your destination. For obvious reasons, the app works best when your GPS is turned on.

WhatsApp is a handy messaging service for travelers abroad as it uses an internet connection to avoid SMS fees.

It works like most other messaging apps: You start by creating an account, then add your friends and family members to contact and voila! You're able to call, video chat and send messages, images, voice memos, gifs and files just as you would in, say, iMessage (but with Android users too). You can also download WhatsApp on your Windows or Mac computer.

Best apps for planning activities

Traveling is about more than just getting from point A to point B. If you're looking for activities to add to your itinerary, check out these apps.

Meetup is an app designed for interacting with locals and other travelers who have mutual interests or shared hobbies. Whether you're traveling or at home, take what you love and do more of it with Meetup.

The app shows you groups that are formed around particular interests in your city, including yoga, photography, cooking, wine tasting, hiking, cinema and other activities. You can join groups to get updates on particular events you may want to participate in. The app can even help with networking, as there are many groups dedicated to business and technology. You might even be able to join a coworking group. Travelers with kids can participate in family-friendly meetups, and it's a great way for solo travelers to make friends and connect with others.

TheFork is one of the most useful resources for making restaurant reservations in Europe. Similar to OpenTable or Resy, the app lets you browse different restaurants by category and make reservations. TheFork features more than 60,000 restaurants in cities like London, Madrid and Geneva, as well as spots outside of Europe like Sydney, Australia.

The biggest perk is that many restaurant reservations come with discounts — in some cases, you can get up to 50% off your meal just by reserving a table through TheFork. Since we here at TPG are always down for earning rewards, make sure to monitor your YUMS — TheFork's reward system. You'll earn YUMS with each reservation, and when you hit 1,000, you receive a discount on your bill. Foodie travelers should also consider downloading these apps , too.

Happy Cow helps vegan and vegetarian eaters locate more than 180,000 restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, farmers markets and grocery stores in over 180 countries around the world. The app allows you to filter by not only vegan and vegetarian but also gluten-free and cuisine types. You can also read reviews and get recipes on the app as well.

The app does cost $3.99, but it's a one-time expense.

TripAdvisor

Besides reading reviews of restaurants, hotels and attractions, you can book almost anything on TripAdvisor, from vacation rentals and restaurant reservations to tours and tickets.

The app has grown to include almost all things travel, allowing you to search by destination or interest (like the outdoors, food and drink, family or by the water, for example), which can give you inspiration for a trip or help you get your activities, meals and accommodations organized before traveling or on the fly.

With over 400,000 curated trails, AllTrails can help you find the hike or walk perfect for you and your group. It's not just mountain trails — AllTrails offers city walks, too, like easy meanders through the Marais district in Paris or peaceful strolls through Bangkok's Lumpini Park in Thailand.

See photos, updated weather predictions and key information about each route and connect with other travelers through reviews and forums. Access to AllTrails+ is $35.99 per year, which offers perks like offline maps and wrong turn alerts.

Best apps for staying safe

Use these apps to stay safe when traveling.

Smart Traveler

Smart Traveler is a free service that offers tips and information specifically for U.S. travelers. You can see what visas and vaccines you'll need before traveling and where to find help if you need it during your trip.

Register your trip on the app, which gives your information to local embassies and consulates in your destination. If there's any kind of disaster or tragedy, the local embassy can contact you to see if you need help.

TripWhistle

Another app dedicated to keeping you safe, TripWhistle maps your location and allows you to easily text or send your GPS coordinates or location. It also provides emergency numbers for firefighters, medical personnel and police in nearly 200 countries. After all, 911 is only for U.S.-based emergencies: Each country has its own specific emergency number.

Yes, Uber (or any local ride-hailing service app) is convenient, but it may also keep you safe. Using this app when traveling means you'll never get stuck wandering around in an unfamiliar area late at night or have to deal with unscrupulous taxi drivers trying to scam you. Uber also has in-app safety features such as an emergency assistance button which will allow you to call local emergency services right in the app.

7 Useful Apps Every Traveler Should Know About

By Harrison Pierce

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Technology continues to make travel easier for millions of people around the globe. New apps offer travelers fresh ways to research a destination, connect with fellow globetrotters, communicate with locals, and track their flights. As a full-time digital nomad , I’ve learned the importance of having the right tools at your disposal when on the road.

Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of countries, flown hundreds of thousands of miles, and tested countless apps to find the ones that prove to be the most helpful. And while tools like Meetup, Google Maps, Google Translate, currency converters, and vacation rental , airline, and hotel–specific apps are in fact indispensable on most trips, I find that many of the best travel apps are still undiscovered by my fellow travelers.

Below, seven travel apps that make life on the go markedly easier (and more fun), from real-time flight trackers to photo-sharing gems—all of these apps are free, but some have paid pro versions worth considering. Don’t think these apps are only for full-time travelers—they prove useful for every type of traveler, whether you're in a brand-new destination or back for a return visit.

Discover the best apps for travelers:

Apps for flying, apps for exploring, apps for photo sharing.

My favorite app on this list is Flighty, a must-have for any frequent flier . The free version is fantastic, but I recommend splurging for the premium version, which gives you even more useful information and comes at a reasonable cost of $48 per year. The functionality it provides more than justifies the price.

The free version allows you to input all future flights plus past journeys you've taken within the last year. It provides updated information if any schedule changes occur to upcoming flights and allows you to track all the miles you’ve flown in one place.

The other main benefit is that it allows you to share your flight information with friends and family members who are also on Flighty. They will receive real-time updates about your flight without you having to text them. My parents love to make sure I’m safe so they appreciate getting detailed information about my travels—even while I’m in the air.

Flightradar24 is a favorite app among fellow aviation geeks. It lets you track almost any aircraft you see in the air throughout the day or night. You can track your own flight, a friend's flight, or any plane you see in real-time. It shares plenty of cool data, like the altitude, speed, arrival and departure airports and times, and tail number.

There are tons of eSIM apps on the market, but Airalo is probably my favorite, with digital SIM cards available for dozens of countries. I find it to be the most reliable and offers the best data packages. It can be a little pricey, but it is the best option if you’re only taking short trips. Holafly is another eSIM app that offers unlimited data and works well, but I find the app to be much more glitchy than Airalo and would recommend using the desktop version.

This one is for the planner of the group. Wanderlog merges the best of a bunch of different apps into one. Imagine an app that lets you plan a trip with ease: collaborate with friends as if you’re on Google Docs, manage expense tracking like Splitwise, and have a central place for your reservations, checklists, and more. Tripit is a similar travel planner app, so you can download both and get a feel for which interface you like better.

Been allows you to track the countries you’ve visited and make a wish list of places you can’t wait to cross off your travel bucket list . It gives you information like the percentage of the globe you’ve been to and shows you a world map of your trips. It’s always fun to add in a new country whenever I reach my destination.

This app was introduced to me by fellow nomads I met at a cafe in Montevideo, Uruguay . It automatically tracks your route across the world, allowing you to quickly upload pictures throughout your travels that can be viewed by anyone who has access to your profile. It’s an excellent way to share important moments with loved ones without needing to send photos to each person individually. Users can also create easily accessible guides filled with up-to-date information to help you plan your own trip.

Steller is another app that a friend recently introduced me to, and I’ve quickly fallen in love with it. It uses a combination of AI and user experiences to help you plan trips around the globe. From recommendations of things to see, like the Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires or the Royal Palace of Naples, to full guidebooks created by users, you can get inspired, book experiences, and discover hidden gems within this app.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

What are you looking for?

35 best travel apps [the definitive 2024 guide].

Traveling is one of the best things in the world, but the fact is that it can be difficult to plan a trip , especially when you’re on a budget or you’re just not sure where to start.

Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic apps out there that can help you with so many things! 

Whether you’re looking to …

• Organize a trip
• Find travel inspiration
• Book accommodation
• Or keep entertained on the go

There really are endless options when it comes to apps for travel. 

Some of them will allow you to benefit from in-app discounts, others will help you find the best tours in the area, and many of them are simply there for inspiration! 

Wherever you’re planning to travel, there are some applications out there that will help you along the way and make your life so much easier.

Although the majority of apps in this guide have a desktop version too, it’s often much handier to have the platform right at your fingertips! 

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the best travel apps (in our opinion at least …).

Travellerspoint

The best apps for organizing your trip

1. wanderlog.

Cost: Freemium: Free, Pro Monthly: $16.99 per month, Pro Annual: $49.99

Device: Android / iPhone

Review score: Google Play: 4.7/5, Apple Store: 4.9/5

Best feature: You can collaborate with friends and family if you’re traveling as a group 

Wanderlog is a travel itinerary and trip planner that allows you to create the trip of your dreams without hassle. 

You can create a fully mapped-out itinerary of your travels, take inspiration from free guides, and put a budget together for your trip. 

However, one of the best things about Wanderlog is that you can collaborate on a trip itinerary together. This makes traveling as a group super easy!

Wanderlog is undoubtedly one of the best travel planning apps out there, and has so much to offer.

The free version is incredible, but if you’re looking for enhanced features such as being able to use the service offline or exporting information to Google Maps, then you can pay a subscription fee. 

2. Get Your Guide

Review score: Google Play: 4.7/5, Apple Store: 4.8/5

Best feature: Get Your Guide has a very flexible free cancellation policy

We always use Get Your Guide when we travel as it’s one of the best ways to search for experiences and tours in your chosen destination. 

All you have to do is type in your city or place, and there will be a wide variety of activities available. This can include safaris, city tours, theme parks, and cruises, so there’s something for everyone! 

You can even purchase city passes like this New York City Pass which can save you up to 40% off attractions.

Booking activities and tours through Get Your Guide allows you to look at reviews, book attractions in advance, and compare prices!

They also have a very flexible cancellation policy, no booking fees, and mobile-friendly tickets so you won’t need to print anything out.

Best feature: 24/7 award-winning support so there’s always someone available to help you

Like Get Your Guide, Viator is one of the best travel apps out there for booking activities, experiences, and tours. It’s owned by Tripadvisor and has a fantastic reputation!

There are plenty of reasons to book your activities with Viator including their award-winning support, free cancellation, variety of payment options, and high-quality standards.

There are over 300,000 experiences available to book on their website and app, and this includes destinations in the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia among others! 

Just type in the place you’re visiting, and you’ll be shown a variety of activities ranging from helicopter tours to hiking. No matter what you’re interested in you’ll find something to your liking.

If you're still in the process of planning a trip and you're unsure of where to choose then check out our guide on the best places to travel to ! 

Cost: Standard: Free, TripIt Pro: $49 per year

Best feature: Being able to sync confirmation emails to your itinerary

TripIt is another highly-rated trip planner if you hadn’t guessed by the name, and it’s a fantastic app for putting together a detailed itinerary. 

The app allows you to sync flight and accommodation confirmations from your email, access the latest travel guidance, and add documents to your travel plans!

There’s a free version that does pretty much everything you need to or you can opt for TripIt Pro which is a paid service. This will allow you to access interactive maps, your flight status, and a fare tracker among other features.

Either way, this is a great travel app for organizing your trip as you can keep everything in one place!

5. Roadtrippers

Cost: Standard: Free, Road Trippers Plus: $29.99 per year

Review score: Google Play: 3.9/5, Apple Store: 4.7/5

Best feature: Roadtrippers Plus allows you to add up to 150 stops on your itinerary

This is one of the best apps for travelers as you’ll get to put together the ultimate road trip itinerary! This includes sights and attractions, places to camp, and activities. 

With Roadtrippers , you can even add fuel and rest stops to your map/itinerary, as well as bars, restaurants, and shops! What more could you need? 

Not only is this app super easy to use, but you’ll have access to a wide range of articles and guides detailing interesting places to visit. 

Driving around the world is our favorite thing to do, and we’ve road-tripped endless countries including Norway , Ireland , Portugal , and Alaska . 

This nifty app makes it so easy to plan the perfect route, so make sure you give it a go! 

The best apps for accommodation

6. booking.com.

Review score: Google Play: 4.6/5, Apple Store: 4.8/5

Best feature: You’ll find plenty of in-app only deals

Booking.com is one of the best vacation rental sites out there and is a fantastic option if you’re looking for accommodation. 

Although there’s a desktop version, having this app at your fingertips will come in handy. In fact, you’ll be able to find plenty of in-app deals which are often cheaper!

We've also got an in-depth guide on how to get cheap hotel rooms if you're interested in further discounts...

If you’re still not convinced, then you can even find cheap flights, rental car deals, and taxis on the app. 

Not only that but you’ll have your booking information (or bookings) in one place, and having the app is a great way to show your hotel address to taxi drivers.

This is undoubtedly one of the best apps for travel so make sure you download it before your trip!

Review score: Google Play: 4.5/5, Apple Store: 4.8/5

Best feature: There are over 5.5 million listings to choose from!

Everyone has heard of Airbnb as it’s revolutionized the accommodation industry since it was founded in 2008. It’s one of the best free travel apps out there so we couldn’t leave it off this list. 

Boasting over 5.5 million accommodation listings worldwide, you’ll find tons of places to stay on this app. Many of the listings are self-contained holiday homes and apartments so you’ll have plenty of space. 

However, you’ll also find a variety of unique accommodation options on Airbnb including cabins, igloos, treehouses, and boats!

This app offers some of the most affordable accommodation options in the world and is a must-have if you’re traveling on a budget.

However, if you’ve got plenty of cash to splash don’t worry as there are lots of luxury stays available too! 

8. Hostelworld

Review score: Google Play: 4.8/5, Apple Store: 4.8/5 

Best feature: 24/7 customer service so there’s always someone there to help

Speaking of traveling on a budget, have you tried Hostelworld ?

Whether you’re looking to visit Rome , Thailand , or New Zealand, this fantastic travel app has over 36,000 budget-friendly listings in over 170 countries.

Offering both dorm beds and private rooms, this is the app you’ll want to download if you’re looking for a bargain. Many of the properties also feature plenty of awesome facilities. 

This ranges from an onsite restaurant to a rooftop area, and some of the hostels even offer free walking tours.

Not only does Hostelworld offer ‘ROAMIE’s which are awesome budget travel tours, but they’re also currently working on a ‘common room’ feature where you’ll be able to connect with other travelers!

Best feature: Kayak offers price alerts for accommodation to help you get the best deals! 

Next up on this list is Kayak which is a comparison platform that compares accommodation, car rentals, transport, and more. It's also a great platform for finding cheap flights.

It’s one of the best all-rounded travel apps, and it even lets you set up a price alert system. This means you’ll be notified when the price drops, and you can sometimes save up to 35% off hotels.

Showing results from over 2 million properties, boasting endless verified reviews, and featuring an easy-to-use layout, it’s no wonder that Kayak is such a big hit.

If you’re still not convinced to download this app from the app store, then they also have a rewards system where you can rack up points to redeem against hotel stays!

10. iOverlander

Review score: Google Play: 3.8/5, Apple Store: 3.5/5

Best feature: Offers an endless list of amenities and camping locations to help you with your road trip

There are plenty of fantastic travel apps out there if you’re looking for cheap hotel rooms, but what about if you’re road-tripping?

That’s where iOverlander comes in! 

iOverlander is a nonprofit project that’s run mostly by volunteers, and it’s one of the best apps for travelers if you’re driving a car or motorhome.

Featuring incredible wild camping locations, petrol stations, hostels/hotels, and mechanics in case you run into a snag, this fantastic app has so much to offer. 

This app also allows users to add locations and amenities, so there are always new places being added.

You’ve also got Park4Night which is one of the best travel apps for Europe road trips! 

If you're planning to convert a campervan and hit the road, then honestly we can't recommend this way of exploring enough. However, just keep in mind that van life isn't for everyone.

The best apps for transportation

11. skyscanner.

Review score: Google Play: 4.7/5, Apple Store: 4.7/5

Best feature: You can compare a variety of airlines, flight times, and prices 

Skyscanner is currently one of the best flight apps on the market as it’s a metasearch engine that searches high and low for the cheapest airline prices.

All you need to do is enter your departure airport, destination, and the date you want to fly. You can then filter out the results by the number of stops, duration, and airline.

Skyscanner also has a handy ‘everywhere’ option so you can just enter your departure airport, and find the cheapest flights on offer! 

If you're looking to travel cheaply , then I 100% recommend downloading this app as you'll benefit from some great flight prices.

The one thing to keep in mind is that you won’t be booking your flight directly through Skyscanner, instead, you’ll be taken to a third-party website. 

Always check that website on Trustpilot before booking your flight - we can’t stress this enough! 

There's no denying that Skyscanner is one of the best travel apps for flights so make sure you download it.

Review score: Google Play: 4.8/5, Apple Store: 4.9/5

Best feature: The app is very easy to use, and you just scan the QR code to unlock your e-scooter or e-bike.

Lime is a micro-mobility app that allows you to use e-scooters and e-bikes without having to rent them. You simply have to download the Lime app, and then use it to locate a ‘vehicle’.

All you have to do then is scan the QR code to unlock your e-scooter or e-bike and you’re good to go. Not only is it a great way to get around, but it’s more environmentally friendly too!

Lime is our favorite e-scooter app, although they’re all typically very similar. The exact app you download will depend on the country you’re in so make sure you do your research first. 

For example, Lime is available in certain areas of Australia, Canada , Europe , the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Best feature: Being able to see the price upfront and ETA

Uber has been given some stick over the years (and understandably so) but today, it’s one of the best ways to get around if you’re planning to use taxis.

It’s a ride-hailing service that allows you to book a taxi where you’ll get to see the price upfront, and the estimated time of arrival (ETA). 

For starters, this stops you from getting ripped off and you won’t need to haggle a price if there aren’t any meter-ran taxis in the area. You can even reserve a ride in advance which is always handy! 

There are plenty of other ride-hailing apps to choose from aside from Uber but it all depends on the location you’re planning to visit. Other options include Grab , Lyft , InDrive , and Bolt . 

14. Airline app

Device: Depends on the airline, but the majority of them operate on Android and iPhone

Review score: N/A

Best feature: Many of the airline apps allow you to check in, in advance 

One of our top travel tips is to have the airline app downloaded onto your phone for whoever you’re flying with. 

For example, I always have Ryannair downloaded on my phone as we fly with them a lot when we’re in Europe. If you fly with various airlines, then you can just download and delete airline apps as needed. 

There are plenty of reasons to download an airline app, but the main reason is that they’re more convenient for checking in. 

You no longer have to queue for hours at the airport desk, and you’ll have easy access to your boarding passes! Many of them offer you the chance to purchase add-ons too! 

Review score: Google Play 4.2/5, Apple Store: 4.8/5

Best feature: Busbud offers a rewards program so you can save money every time you use it

Busbud is one of the best tourist apps out there if you’re looking to book transport! Although its name may not suggest it, you can actually use it to book buses, trains, and hotels. 

This app is partnered with some of the world’s best transport providers including Flixbus , Greyhound , Amtrak , and National Express , so it’s a great option if you’re looking to compare prices.

All you have to do is type in your departure point, your destination, and the date of travel and you’ll be offered several options - some for as little as $3!

Other fantastic transport apps include Check My Bus and 12Go Asia with the latter being great for traveling through Southeast Asia.

The best apps for easy travel in your destination

16. google maps.

Review score: Google Play: 4.1/5, Apple Store: 4.7/5

Best feature: You can download offline maps that have your ‘points of interest’ on 

Google Maps is undeniably one of the best apps for traveling! Whether you’re looking to find local businesses, get driving directions, or explore the area, this app has it all. 

Offering maps of over 220 countries and territories, you’ll have no problems getting around your chosen destination with this app. Most of the amenities listed on these maps have reviews and images too! 

However, one of my favorite things about Google Maps is its ‘Your Places’ feature where you can create your own lists and maps! 

In these lists, you can create the ultimate itinerary by bookmarking popular tourist attractions and restaurants, before downloading your map. You can then use your map offline whilst you’re on the go. 

17. Maps.me

Review score: Google Play 4.1/5, Apple Store: 4.7/5

Best feature: Maps.me offers a bookmark collection so you can create your ultimate trip!

Maps.me is very similar to Google Maps and covers six of the seven continents. So, why will you need this one you ask?

Well, Maps.me is very handy for countries that are a bit more rugged. The reason I say this is because these apps are mapped out by photography from cars. 

Unfortunately, there are some areas where Google Maps cars are yet to venture which is where this app comes in…

We actually needed this app quite a lot in Eastern Europe as we traveled through some more off-the-beaten-track locations. In fact, the road markings were much clearer here too! 

So what are you waiting for? Make sure you check out this travel app! 

18. Google Lens

Review score: Google Play: 4.6/5, no specific Google Lens app on the Apple Store

Best feature: Can translate documents for you such as menus and brochures

We’ve all been there, you’re in a foreign country and you’ve sat down at a restaurant. You get excited to try some local cuisine and then you take a look at the menu, and you’ve got no idea what it says…

Luckily, Google Lens is here to help!

All you have to do is take a picture of your intended document, and then the app will translate the text to your preferred language.  

How handy is that!?

It’s a game changer for menus in particular.

Google Lens can also find clothes online from a picture, solve problems, and help you identify a species of flower, I mean it can pretty much do everything! 

Just keep in mind that the only way to access this app on iPhone is to first download the Google app, and then you’ll have to use it through that. 

19. Google Translate

Review score: Google Play: 4.4/5, Apple Store: 4.3/5

Best feature: You’ll have the power of language right at your fingertips!

Google Translate is AMAZING and we’ve used it in nearly every country that we’ve traveled to. 

Many people choose to just google “translate [Language] to English” but it’s handy to have the app installed as it’s often much quicker!

You can translate over 100 different languages with this app, and it’s a great way to interact with the locals if they don’t understand your language. 

If you’re a keen traveler then you’re likely to need Google Translate plenty of times throughout your lifetime. Whether that be translating a road sign, speaking to your taxi driver, or haggling a deal! 

Google Translate is one of my top recommendations when it comes to travel apps as it’s helped us out a lot over the years!

20. Revolut

Review score: Google Play 4.5/5, Apple Store: 4.7/5

Best feature: Allows you to save money on ATM withdrawals whilst abroad 

Using a traditional bank account can get expensive if you’re a long-term traveler or digital nomad , which is why many people apply for a card from Revolut .

This travel card offers fantastic exchange rates, helps you save money on transfer fees, and gives you an allowance of up to $240 for no-fee ATM withdrawals.

Revolut offers a free account and paid plans, with the latter allowing you access to a variety of awesome features including travel insurance, cashback options, and airport lounge access. 

We've actually written an in-depth Revolut review if you're interested in learning more...

Aside from Revolut, there are plenty of other banking apps that you can use including Monzo and Wise ! Before you decide which one to use, do some research and see which company is more suited to you. 

21. NHS App

Review score: Google Play: 3.1/5, Apple Store: 2.9/5

Best feature: You can easily access your health records 

The NHS App is UK-specific, but perhaps your country offers something similar so make sure you do a bit of research before your trip.

The great thing about this app is that it gives you access to the newest version of your health records, your vaccinations, and Covid passes (if they’re required). 

This is vital during today's climate, especially as the pandemic has altered the entry requirements for a variety of countries! 

You’ll also be able to access services online which is always handy, but of course, this will be limited if you’re abroad. 

If your country doesn’t have something similar, then make sure you download a general health app that can give you guidelines. An example of this is My Travel Health ! 

22. Priority Pass

Cost: Standard: $99, Standard Plus: $329, Prestige: $469

Review score: Google Play: 3.8/5, Apple Store: 4.6/5

Best feature: Offers you free (or discounted) access to 1,300+ airport lounges

Priority Pass is an airport lounge access program that requires you to have a membership. 

There are three options; Standard, Standard Plus, and Prestige, and each one has an annual fee. 

However, once you’ve paid the fee you’ll get free (or discounted) access to airport lounges all around the world. This is perfect if you’re traveling a lot or you’re a digital nomad so you work on the go! 

We usually sign up around Black Friday for the cheapest rate, and then use the QR code on the app for access.

Although this may seem like more of a niche travel app, it’s a great one to have if you spend a lot of time traveling! 

The best apps for entertainment purposes 

23. spotify.

Cost: Spotify Free: free, Spotify Premium: $4.99-$15.99 per month

Review score: Google Play: 4.4/5, Apple Store: 4.8/5

Best feature: Allows you to download music and listen offline whilst you’re traveling 

Spotify is a digital music service that gives you access to over 50 million songs ranging from the likes of Queen to local artists that are a little less well-known!

You can download albums, make your own playlists, listen to other users’ playlists, or listen to songs that the app recommends based on your music style. Spotify also has plenty of podcasts that you can listen to!

Although Spotify is one of the most popular music apps, you’ve also got the likes of Amazon Music , YouTube Music , and Apple Music . 

Whichever one you go for, I’d recommend going for a plan that allows you to download songs for offline use! 

24. Audible

Cost: $9.50 per month 

Review score: Google Play: 4.6/5, Apple Store: 4.9/5

Best feature: Amazon Prime members get exclusive offers!

I love listening to audiobooks, especially on long drives as it’s a great way to zone out and learn something new. Either that or I listen to a fiction book which is something I don’t usually have the time to do! 

Audible is the best option for this as it offers unlimited listening time when it comes to podcasts, audiobooks, and audibles! 

Although you have to pay for the service it’s totally worth it in my opinion, as you’ll have access to thousands of options.

So if you’re looking for an app for your vacation then I highly recommend downloading this one! There’s even a free 30-day trial if you’d prefer to try it out first before you commit to it.

25. Netflix

Cost: Basic: $6, Standard: $13, Premium: $19 per month

Review score: Google Play: 4.4/5, Apple Store: 4/5

Best feature: Being able to download movies and watch them online!

Everyone is likely to know Netflix and although it’s not a travel app, it’s very handy whilst you’re on the go. 

It’s one of the best apps for trips, especially if you’re going to have long journeys and flights, or spend a lot of time at the airport. 

There are three plans to choose from, and each one offers unlimited access to thousands of films and tv programs. 

The highlight of Netflix is being able to download your favorite movies and tv shows, and then watch them later offline - just keep in mind that the basic plan doesn’t offer this. 

Disney Plus and Amazon Prime also offers you the chance to download offline movies if you’d prefer to go for something else! 

Cost: Kindle Unlimited: $9.50 per month

Best feature: You’ll have access to millions of books on the go

Kindle is undoubtedly one of the best apps for travelers, especially if you’re a keen reader. 

Unfortunately, when we travel we’re subject to strict luggage allowance which means you can’t take a ton of books with you on holiday. 

This is where a kindle comes in handy, as you can purchase books online and then read them digitally on your device. 

Although you can simply download books to read, you’ve also got Kindle Unlimited which is a subscription service. This service allows you access to select magazine subscriptions, millions of books, and thousands of audiobooks! 

There’s so much choice, and you won’t be short of books to read by the pool!

27. Surfshark

Cost: $2-$13 a month depending on whether you choose to pay monthly, yearly, or every 24 months 

Review score: Google Play: 4.2/5, Apple Store: 4.9/5

Best feature: Allows you to access websites and TV series that would otherwise be inaccessible abroad

Surfshark is the VPN of our choice, and a VPN essentially means ‘Virtual Private Network’. 

It technically works by encrypting communications so you’ll have an anonymous IP address. Not only does this help keep your connection secure, but it’s got plenty of other fantastic features too.

For starters, Surf Shark (or any VPN) allows you to access websites that are inaccessible abroad, so for us a lot of .co.uk websites don’t seem to work overseas. 

You’ll also be able to watch TV shows and films that aren’t available in certain countries , as a VPN essentially changes your IP location. 

Having a VPN is also a great option for digital nomads or those with travel jobs as your connection will always be secure.

The best apps for travel inspiration

28. instagram.

Review score: Google Play: 4/5, Apple Store: 4.7/5

Best feature: Allows you to find some awesome travel destinations 

Instagram is one of the most popular apps in the world as it allows you to keep connected with friends and family, whilst showing off your photography skills.

Although social media can often feel draining, this app has so much to offer if you’re a keen traveler!

Instagram allows you to connect with like-minded travelers, inspire your travels, and find fantastic ‘Instagrammable’ locations that you wouldn’t otherwise know about. 

We follow hundreds of our favorite travel photographers, vloggers, and bloggers, and we’re inundated with new places to add to our bucket list on a daily basis! 

Not only will you get to view new destinations through images and reels, but you’ll often get a more realistic experience through stories too. There’s nothing better than that! 

29. Pinterest

Best feature: Can create your own boards and save ideas to them! 

Next up on this list is Pinterest , which isn’t a travel application but it’s got a lot to offer. 

Pinterest works almost like a huge mood board where you can find inspiration on just about anything, and that goes for fashion, recipes, and home decor. 

The best thing about Pinterest is that you can create boards dedicated to your interests, so in this case, it would be travel! 

This is great for travelers, as you can create a variety of awesome boards on ‘bucket list’ experiences, specific countries, budget travel, etc. Then, all you need to do is save those pins and you can come back to them later! 

Pinterest is a very visual platform, and if you want more information you’ll be directed to the pin’s website.

Best feature: You can favorite videos and add them to your own ‘collections’

Although TikTok may not be for everyone, there’s no denying that it’s a fantastic app for travel inspiration! 

TikTok is essentially a video-sharing app and it’s one of the best apps for tourists who are choosing their destination or looking for places to visit after booking a holiday. 

Many travel bloggers, vloggers, and photographers have started to understand the importance of this app as a marketing tool , and that means lots of travel content!

You can favorite the videos that you like and create your own collections e.g. United States, bucket list, Wildlife, etc., and then you can watch them back whenever you like. 

There’s no limit to the number of videos you can save, and you’ll find some great travel tips along the way! 

31. Polar Steps

Review score: Google Play: 4.8/5, Apple Store: 4.8/5

Best feature: The App can physically track your travels whilst you’re on the move

Polar Steps is technically a travel planner and tracker, however, it’s a great app for travel inspiration as you’ll have access to a variety of guides. 

There are plenty of travel guides to read, and all you need to do is search for your destination! From there, you’ll get to see images, attractions in that area, recommended accommodation options, and restaurants. 

Another fantastic feature of Polar Steps is that it can physically track your travels as you go along. Not only will you get to see your travel route, but you can even create a cool travel book with the information! 

You can also add on past trips if you can remember the route, so you’ll have all your travels in the one app.

32. Locationscout

Review score: Google Play: 2.9/5, Apple Store: 3.8/5

Best feature: All the ‘photo spots’ are uploaded onto a map which you’ll have access to

For this travel app guide, I had to include Locationscout ! 

Although it’s not one of the more popular apps, it’s fantastic for those who are looking for some travel inspiration - especially keen photographers. 

Locationscout essentially works by showing ‘photo spots’ in a variety of cities and countries across the world. 

You can then click into each destination (say London for example), and you’ll be given an overview of that place, a grid of ‘photo spots’, and a map that has them all included!

The app then goes further into detail about each photo spot, including information on the best time to visit, tips to get the best photographs, and how to get there. 

If you're a keen photographer looking to improve your skills then why not check out these fantastic online photography classes too!

The best apps for keeping connected with home

Cost: Free (but there’s a cost to ring from landlines or mobiles) 

Review score: Google Play: 4.1/5, Apple Store: 4.5/5

Best feature: Can make free video calls to anywhere in the world! 

Although Skype isn’t considered to be a ‘travel app’ it’s a great way to keep connected with your friends and family back home. 

It allows you to make free video calls worldwide if you’re using skype-to-skype, or you can call from a landline or mobile for a fee. 

If you’re calling from a mobile or landline, then you just need to top up your credit every now and then. As long as you have a WiFi signal, you can call any number in the world and the bill will be extremely cheap! 

Skype is also a great app to have for digital nomads and business owners who are always on the move, in case you need to jump on a work call! Although Zoom is often the more popular option for this! 

34. Whatsapp

Review score: Google Play 4.3/5, Apple Store: 4.7/5

Best feature: Being able to message, call, and video call other numbers for free as long as you’ve got WiFi

Another great app to have if you’re wanting to stay connected to people is Whatsapp !

It's a messaging app that allows you to message, call, and video call other Whatsapp users for free, as long as you’re connected to WiFi.

Not only is Whatsapp useful when it comes to contacting friends and family, but it’s also a great way to keep in contact with people in the region you’re traveling.

Many tour operators, hotels, and companies have Whatsapp, which means you can contact them with any queries and you won’t need to spend money to text or call from your phone. 

If you’re only able to download a couple of apps during your travels, then make sure Whatsapp is one of them!

35. Moonpig

Best feature: You’ll often get in-app discounts 

If you travel a lot, then unfortunately you’re going to miss a lot of birthdays!

Luckily, there are apps out there where you can send birthday cards back home for friends and family members. 

Our favorite is Moonpig as it’s super easy to use, and you can set reminders for birthdays so you don’t forget. 

Not only can you send cards, but Moonpig also has a wide variety of presents, birthday balloons, and flowers available among other items.

They even offer personalized gifts for that someone special , and there are a variety of shipping options to make sure it gets there in time! 

There is a desktop version of Moonpig, but if you download the app you’ll often have access to specific in-app discounts.

Which travel apps will you use?

As you can see, there are so many fantastic apps for traveling. The question is, which ones should you download?

This all depends on what you’re looking to do; book accommodation, find travel inspiration, look for discounts, or keep yourself connected with home! 

Now, everyone knows that phones all have limited memory so it’s not viable to download every single app in this guide. Just make sure you prioritize the ones you think will help the most!

A few of our favorites include Booking.com, Skyscanner, Get Your Guide, Google Maps, and Instagram of course! 

Now you've got an idea of the best tourism apps out there, it's time to start planning your trip.

Here are some guides for inspiration:

• The Best Cheap Places To Travel
• The Best Backpacking Destinations Around the World
• The Cheapest Countries To Visit In Europe

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

25 Best Travel Apps of 2024

Home | Travel | 25 Best Travel Apps of 2024

Travel applications are designed to help us navigate our destinations more easily and make the best decisions in various stages of our journey. Having explored the globe for years, whether on our photo tours or leisurely adventures, we’ve relied on numerous travel apps . Now, these apps have become indispensable tools in our traveling toolkit.

If you want to simplify your experience at your destination or score budget-friendly flights and accommodations, you’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll highlight some of the best travel apps to download. And, if you’re looking for ways to travel cheaply , make sure to check out our list of travel discounts , too!

To make things easier and help you find apps for specific purposes, I’ve organized the top trip-planning apps based on their functionality:

Best apps for air travel

• Best apps for accommodations

Best apps for transportation

• Best apps to find attractions and things to do
• Best apps to manage finances during the trip
• Best apps for trip planning
• Other need-specific apps

When it comes to finding cheap flights and efficiently managing your reservations, there are several travel apps that stand out. Here are some of the best ones:

1. Skyscanner, one of the best travel apps for cheap flights

Skyscanner is a top-notch platform designed to effortlessly search for and book budget-friendly flights . What sets it apart is its comprehensive tracking of all airlines along your specified route. This allows you to find the optimal choice based on factors like price, schedule, and layovers.

The Skyscanner travel app is an extension of this functionality, allowing users to search for and secure flight deals. It offers diverse sorting options that help you filter results by price, journey duration, or other preferences. If you’re accustomed to managing everything from your mobile device, Skyscanner stands out as the best application for booking flights . Using this app, you can search for flights anytime, anywhere, and complete your reservation. While it also features hotel and rental car searches, keep in mind that there are dedicated apps that function better for these purposes.

The application is free and available for Android and iOS devices.

2. Kiwi, the best application for booking flights

Similar to Skyscanner, Kiwi is a top-rated platform that helps you track all airlines servicing your desired route, ensuring you find the most affordable tickets available . The unique advantage of this platform is that it has often allowed us to find the best deals, which explains why it has been our preferred choice for some time now.

Kiwi offers an app for airplane flights , allowing you to search for and book flights without the need for a computer. It also offers various features, including the ability to set up alerts, review itineraries, modify details, access offline boarding passes, and more. Simply put, Kiwi is one of the best air travel apps that covers practically everything you need for planning flights.

This air travel app is completely free and is available for Android and iOS devices.

3. Hopper, an app for managing airplane flights

Hopper is a type of travel agency that collaborates with various airlines, hotels, accommodations, and car rental companies to streamline trip organization and planning.

While particularly popular in the United States, this travel app for flights is accessible in other countries as well, helping users simplify their search and reserve flight tickets, hotels, and rental cars. More importantly, the app operates based on an algorithm that accurately predicts flight prices in advance . If you’re uncertain about whether plane tickets will rise or fall in the coming months, Hopper can guide your decision-making. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best travel apps for exploring flight options and predicting price fluctuations.

This travel app is completely free, compatible with both Android and iOS, and available in multiple languages.

4. FlightAware, the best air travel app to track flight

FlightAware is one of the best applications for flights that provides you with real-time updates on flight statuses . Although it’s highly popular among frequent flyers, this travel app is a practical tool for anyone who wants to receive timely updates on departure and arrival times, cancellations, gate changes, and even weather conditions.

It’s undoubtedly the go-to travel app for staying informed about your upcoming flight or when you’re picking someone up at the airport.

This travel application is free and available for both Android and iOS devices .

Best apps for finding accommodations

Here is a list of travel apps you can use to find cheap hotels and other types of accommodation.

5. Booking, the best travel app for hotels

Booking is one of the best websites for finding hotels, apartments, and various accommodations worldwide. As our preferred website for booking accommodation, this app has become indispensable for us.

With this travel application , you can find and book hotels in almost any country in the world . The app mirrors the website’s user-friendly interface, allowing you to search for accommodations without any problems. In addition, you can easily book, manage, and access all reservation details, including address, check-in/check-out times, amenities, and terms and conditions. The app also facilitates direct communication with the property managers or owners to address any questions you may have.

When you make reservations through the website and access your user account, all the information automatically syncs with the Booking app.

The application is completely free and available for Android and iOS devices.

6. Airbnb, an application for finding apartments and vacation rentals

Airbnb is the best travel app for finding apartments and vacation rentals by directly connecting with the property owners. What sets this travel application apart is that Airbnb predominantly features accommodations owned by individuals, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for cost-effective alternatives to hotels.

The Airbnb app is user-friendly, asking you to simply select a destination to generate results. These results can be sorted by price, distance from the city center, and other preferences. The travel app also offers filtering options to display accommodations with specific features.

You can download the app at no cost for both Android and iOS devices. For more information, check out our guide on Airbnb .

7. Hostelworld, the best app for finding hostels and affordable accommodation

Hostelworld is one of the best apps for solo travelers , allowing you to locate and book hostels in over 170 countries around the world.

If you’re on a tight budget or a solo traveler looking for social interactions, the Hostelworld app is a go-to solution. It provides access to a diverse range of hostels, some of which rival hotels with amenities such as game rooms, dining areas, swimming pools, and communal spaces designed for shared experiences with fellow guests. This tourism application not only allows you to make reservations but also offers a unique feature; after booking, you can identify fellow travelers who will be at the hostel and initiate conversations.

Within the same application, you can also manage your reservation, make adjustments, or cancel if needed.

The app is free to download and is compatible with both Android and iOS devices .

If you’re looking to rent a car at your destination for the freedom to move without schedules and restrictions, various travel apps can assist you in finding cheap rental cars . Alternatively, if you don’t have a driver’s license or simply prefer not to drive, there are several apps to plan a road trip, facilitating easy transportation from one location to another.

8. DiscoverCars, one of the best applications for traveling by car

DiscoverCars stands out as our preferred platform for finding rental cars , featuring various capabilities to track, analyze, and compare offerings from hundreds of websites and companies, ensuring you find the option that best suits your needs.

You can use DiscoverCars to find vehicles and efficiently manage your rental. Offering a user-friendly interface, you can easily search based on criteria such as price, vehicle features, proximity to offices, and other features. Undoubtedly, DiscoverCars is among the most valuable travel apps for road trips , providing a comprehensive solution for finding the best rental options.

This free travel app is available for both Android and iOS devices.

9. Moovit, one of the best apps for using public transportation while traveling

Moovit has become one of the best apps for cheap travel , allowing travelers to opt for public transport instead of using their own vehicles. It’s an indispensable app for those relying on buses, trains, trams, subways, ferries, and more during their trips.

Through Moovit, you gain access to comprehensive schedules for all modes of public transport in a city. You can also find the best route from one point to another, making it a must-have tourism app for vacationers navigating unfamiliar cities.

Real-time arrival information is another valuable feature I love about this app, allowing you to plan your itinerary more effectively.

This free app is available on both Android and iOS devices.

10. Rome2Rio, another travel application for multimodal transport

Rome2Rio is one of the most popular travel apps for planning a road trip, capable of searching and generating the fastest routes between any two points .

When you need to reach a destination, Rome2Rio analyzes all available routes, transportation modes, real-time road conditions, and other factors to provide you with the quickest option. Moreover, the app allows you to book train tickets, ferry tickets, or any other required mode of transportation.

Rome2Rio is definitely one of the best apps for cheap travel . This application is a valuable tool for those looking for affordable travel options, as it can estimate the cost of each route, allowing you to make informed decisions based on both time and price considerations.

The app is free to use and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

11. Omio, one of the best apps for train travel

Omio is a trip-planning app that works as a transportation search engine , helping users find the most economical means of getting from one point to another.

While not my first choice for flight searches, Omio is exceptionally useful for finding and booking cheap train tickets . Through this app, you can easily search for routes, make reservations, and buy train tickets. The app also supports payment through PayPal. Omio is one of the best apps for train travel , especially if you are traveling to Europe, the U.S., or Canada.

12. Maps.me, one of the best apps for offline maps

Maps.me is an application that lets you access all the maps you’ve downloaded on your device , allowing you to easily orient yourself even when you don’t have an Internet connection. This feature is really beneficial for following your travel itinerary without reliance on constant connectivity.

Maps.me becomes particularly useful in situations where Internet access is limited. It allows you to pinpoint your location, locate major tourist attractions, and identify public transportation hubs like metro, bus, or train stations. Additionally, Maps.me covers a wide range of attractions, including restaurants, supermarkets, and other noteworthy places. Personally, I find it exceptionally handy for hiking routes due to its detailed maps. Just keep in mind that first, you need to download the maps while connected to the Internet, whether at home, in a hotel, or any place with Internet access.

While Maps.me is an effective tool, I always recommend having a stable Internet connection while traveling , not only for navigation but also for staying in touch with family and friends or addressing any unforeseen events.

This tourism application is available for both Android and iOS devices, and it’s completely free .

Best apps to find attractions and things to do during your trip

If you want to ensure you don’t miss out on anything in the city you’re visiting, or if you need to find restaurants, hotels, gas stations, parking lots, hospitals, and other essential places, there are traveler apps designed to simplify and enhance your experience.

13. Aroundme, the ultimate application for sightseeing

Aroundme is an indispensable travel app for those exploring a new city, ensuring you don’t miss out on any points of interest . Whether you’re searching for restaurants, supermarkets, medical centers, parking lots, or gas stations, this app has you covered. It also helps you find tourist attractions such as monuments, historical buildings, museums, and parks.

To enhance the user experience, Aroundme categorizes places into a detailed list. Once you select a category, all the relevant results appear with crucial information like distance, approximate prices (for restaurants, for example), and other details to help you make informed choices.

Undoubtedly, it ranks among the best travel apps for sightseeing . The application is free to download and available on both Android and iOS devices.

14. SmartGuide, one of the best apps for tourists

SmartGuide is one of the best tourist guide apps , particularly useful for travelers looking for diverse and enriched experiences. The app serves as a platform where tour guides, area experts, or fellow travelers publish informative audio guides , offering valuable insights into a destination’s history, art, culture, and traditions.

If you haven’t booked a guided tour for your city visit, SmartGuide allows you to download audio guides tailored to your interests, enabling you to explore your destination at your own pace. The app covers a diverse range of topics, including history, art, culture, and tradition, ensuring a more enjoyable trip.

The best part is that SmartGuide is entirely free and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

15. Guruwalk, one of the best apps for finding free tours

Guruwalk is one of the most popular travel apps for those looking for free tours in any city around the world. All you need to do is enter your destination city or country, as well as your trip dates, and you’ll receive a comprehensive list of available options.

This tourism application is undoubtedly the best choice for those on a tight budget but eager to enjoy a guided tour. Depending on the city, you’ll find various tours with different themes. Although the tours are free, it’s customary to offer a tip to the guide at the end of the activity. Additionally, remember to cancel your reservation if you’re unable to attend.

To get the most out of this travel app , I recommend planning ahead and booking your tours as early as possible since these activities tend to fill up quickly.

The Guruwalk app is free and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

16. GetYourGuide, the best app for finding tours and excursions worldwide

GetYourGuide is one of our favorite platforms for finding and booking tours and excursions around the world.

Through the GetYourGuide tourism app , you can search for, book, and manage a wide array of activities. Options include guided walking tours, helicopter or small plane tours, wildlife excursions, dining experiences, tickets to events, and more. Whatever your hobbies and interests, GetYourGuide offers a diverse range of activities to suit your preferences.

If you cannot attend the activity, the app provides a cancellation option. Additionally, you can contact customer service directly through the app .

Apps to manage finances during the trip

Travel management apps are another useful category of tourist applications that allow you to manage your expenses during your trip.

17. SplitWise, the perfect app for sharing group travel expenses

SplitWise is the best app for sharing travel expenses . When traveling with a group, dividing expenses can be a complex task, and SplitWise simplifies this process. Whether you prefer splitting bills evenly or keeping track of individual contributions, SplitWise ensures accuracy and eliminates potential conflicts within the group.

The app is super user-friendly. Simply add all group members, and input the expense details, including what the payment is for, the amount, the payer, and participants, and SplitWise takes care of the rest. It keeps a comprehensive record of each person’s payments, debts, and credits.

Additionally, everyone in your group who downloaded the app can access trip information, making it an excellent app for group trips as well.

SplitWise is free on both Android and iOS devices.

18. XE Currency, the best application to exchange currency abroad

XE Currency takes the spotlight as the best application for handling currency exchanges while traveling to countries with currencies other than the dollar. In most cases, I recommend using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees . But, if, for any reason, you have to exchange currency , you cannot find a travel app better than XE Currency to get it done.

This app allows you to monitor up to 10 different currencies and activate alerts and notifications to make exchanges at optimal times. It also facilitates international transfers and provides historical charts with currency information. With a range of functionalities related to currency exchange, XE Currency is a valuable travel application .

The app is entirely free and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

19. Revolut, another excellent currency exchange app

Revolut , renowned as one of the best cards for international travel , also offers one of the best apps for traveling abroad , especially for travelers who wish to keep meticulous records of their expenses during their trips. This app offers a comprehensive suite of functionalities, allowing users to manage various aspects, from making payments using the virtual card to splitting travel expenses with friends, or conducting transfers.

If you have a Revolut card , the application becomes indispensable, as it provides complete control over your Revolut account.

The Revolut app is completely free and exclusively designed for Revolut customers. It is available on both Android and iOS devices .

Best travel apps for planning a trip

If you prefer to have everything planned ahead of time, there are great travel apps out there that can help you organize your trip .

20. TripIt, one of the best trip-planning apps

TripIt is an invaluable trip-planning app that allows you to streamline all your reservations, tickets, and confirmations in one convenient place.

When planning a trip, it’s common to book flights, hotels, tours, and more from different platforms and websites, which leads to multiple confirmation emails and a lot of confusion. TripIt simplifies the process by allowing you to forward these emails, generating a comprehensive travel itinerary with all the essential information you need. The app also sends timely reminders and alerts to ensure you don’t overlook any details, making it the perfect travel app to plan a trip .

TripIt is completely free on both Android and iOS devices.

21. Packpoint, the best app that helps you pack for your trip

Packpoint is the best travel kit app that will immediately become an indispensable tool for efficient suitcase packing on all your future trips .

To tailor your packing list, simply input details such as your travel destination, date, trip purpose, and planned activities. Packpoint then generates a customized list, considering factors like weather, trip duration, and the specific activities you’ve planned. Trust me, this app is a game-changer, as it simplifies the packing process and ensures you don’t forget any essentials.

In addition, if you find yourself at your destination without a convenient place to store your suitcase, I recommend checking our luggage storage guide. This resource has proven invaluable for us on multiple occasions, especially when accommodations lack luggage storage options or don’t permit early check-ins.

Packpoint is completely free on both Android and iOS devices .

Other need-specific travel apps

In addition to the list of travel apps mentioned above, there are a few handy tourism applications that can ensure a smoother experience for all travelers.

22. Google Translate, a useful offline translation app for travel

Google Translate stands out as one of the best apps for overseas travel . It’s particularly beneficial when visiting countries where you may not be fluent in the local language.

This application has undergone significant improvements. Now, you don’t need to manually input text for translation—simply take a photo of the text or activate the microphone for spoken translations. Google Translate is recognized as one of the best translation apps for travelers , making it a must-have when visiting foreign countries. I assure you that it has come to our rescue more than once.

You can download the Google Translate app for free on both Android and iOS devices.

23. WiFiMap, the best travel application for free Internet access

An international eSIM or, in case of incompatibility, an international SIM is the best way to have Internet access while traveling . We personally use Holafly cards , which provide unlimited data at an affordable price. To make things even better, you can take advantage of our Holafly discount to use their services at a cheaper price. However, if you find yourself without these cards and need Internet abroad, WiFiMap steps in as an excellent alternative.

WiFiMap is the best travel application for Internet access, helping you locate free connection points without the need for an international eSIM or SIM card. Even if you are without Internet access, WiFiMap’s regularly updated database includes open or public Wi-Fi networks, making it a reliable option when you are in a foreign country without mobile data.

This application is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and is completely free.

24. Flush, the best app for travel emergencies

Flush is a travel application that can truly save the day. It serves as a public restroom finder , helping you locate the nearest facilities in various situations.

Flush is exceptionally user-friendly, offering an incredibly intuitive interface. Regardless of whether you have Internet access or not, this versatile app works seamlessly so you can locate a restroom even in areas without coverage. If you have data and activate location tracking on your device, Flush provides real-time information on the nearest public restrooms. Even if you don’t have Internet, you can simply enter your location, and Flush will guide you.

This application is available for both Android and iOS devices, and the best part is it’s completely free.

25. HeyMondo app, the best insurance app for travelers in case of emergency

When it comes to the best application for safe travel , the HeyMondo app stands out as an indispensable tool. HeyMondo not only offers one of the best travel insurance policies in terms of coverage and price but also provides an app with a 24/7 medical chat . This feature allows you to quickly address any medical queries without the need to visit a medical center.

Through the HeyMondo app, you can check your policy details, request medical assistance, and get other essential information. It’s important to note that this travel application is exclusively available to customers who have purchased HeyMondo insurance .

As long-time users of HeyMondo, we can attest to its effectiveness. The app is incredibly useful, providing quick and professional assistance whenever needed. Additionally, you can make the most of HeyMondo discounts to buy your insurance at an even more affordable rate.

While the app can be downloaded for free, it is accessible only to those who have an active insurance policy with HeyMondo. If you haven’t obtained your policy yet, you can do so here .

Other travel apps we frequently use

While the travel applications mentioned above cover a wide range of needs, there are a few additional ones we consider essential, especially for more specific scenarios.

Windy is the best travel weather app , providing accurate and detailed weather information. We also rely on PhotoPills , a must-have for photo enthusiasts, which allows you to plan your shots and figure out, for instance, the best time to photograph the Milky Way .

For campervan journeys in New Zealand or Australia, CamperMate is our go-to app, offering valuable information for travelers on the road. Moreover, iOverlander is one of the best apps for planning a road trip across the United States.

The world of travel apps is vast, and if you have any favorites or essential apps you’d like to share, feel free to leave a comment below. I’m always eager to discover new and useful tools. Regardless, I trust that the apps mentioned in this guide will significantly enhance and simplify your travel experiences.

Enjoy your trip!

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ 25 Best Travel Apps of 2024 ”

great list – thanks for sharing!! also this app is super great and worth a shot : ATM Fee Saver – the app gives you a list of ATMs and their fees and limits. works in over 45 countries i think. i used it in southamerica and really loved it =) best regards charlie

Hi Charlie, Looks like an awesome app. Very useful! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip
• Tech & Gear

The 26 Best Apps For Travellers

Published: September 18, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Aline Moyers

• Hotel Reviews
• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Traveling can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it can also be overwhelming and challenging, especially when you’re in a new and unfamiliar place. Thankfully, technology has made the process of traveling much easier and more convenient. With the advent of smartphones and the countless apps available, travelers now have access to a plethora of tools and resources that can enhance their journey and make it more enjoyable.

In this article, we will explore the 26 best apps for travelers that cater to various aspects of your trip, from booking accommodations to finding local attractions and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time traveler, these apps will undoubtedly simplify your travel experience and save you time and effort.

Before we delve into the specific categories, it’s worth noting that many of these apps offer features that go beyond their designated categories. For example, you may find a transportation app that also includes information about local attractions or a language app that offers currency conversion. Therefore, it’s important to explore each app and its functionality to discover all the features that can benefit your travel experience.

Now, let’s jump right into the first category: booking and accommodation apps. These apps will assist you in finding the perfect place to stay, whether it’s a hotel, hostel, or vacation rental.

Booking and Accommodation Apps

When it comes to finding and booking accommodation, there are several apps that simplify the process and offer a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences.

a) Airbnb: Airbnb is a popular app that allows travelers to book unique accommodations around the world, including apartments, houses, and even treehouses. It provides a platform for homeowners to rent out their properties, giving travelers the opportunity to experience local living and create memorable experiences.

b) Booking.com: With a vast database of properties ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious, Booking.com is a go-to app for many travelers. It offers a wide selection of hotels, resorts, hostels, and even homestays, giving you plenty of options to choose from no matter your destination.

c) Hotels.com: Hotels.com is another excellent app for finding and booking accommodations. It offers a loyalty program where you can collect nights for each stay, and once you accumulate a certain number of nights, you’ll earn a free night stay.

d) Expedia: Expedia is a comprehensive travel app that not only allows you to book accommodations but also offers deals on flights, car rentals, and vacation packages. It’s a convenient one-stop-shop for all your travel planning needs.

e) Hostelworld: If you’re a budget traveler or enjoy the social aspect of staying in hostels, Hostelworld is the perfect app for you. It specializes in booking hostel accommodations worldwide and provides detailed information about each hostel, including amenities, reviews, and prices.

f) Agoda: Agoda is a popular app, especially in Asia, that offers competitive rates on accommodations. It provides a wide selection of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses, catering to different budgets and travel preferences.

g) TripAdvisor: While TripAdvisor is primarily known for its extensive database of travel reviews and recommendations, it also offers a booking feature for accommodations. You can read reviews, view photos, and compare prices before making a booking.

h) VRBO: VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner) is a platform similar to Airbnb, where property owners can list their vacation rentals. It’s a great option for travelers looking for spacious and private accommodations, such as villas, condos, or beach houses.

These booking and accommodation apps provide convenience, flexibility, and a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious villas, you can find the perfect place to stay with just a few taps on your smartphone.

Transportation Apps

Getting around in an unfamiliar city or country can be daunting, but with the help of transportation apps, navigating public transportation or finding a ride has never been easier. Here are some top transportation apps to consider:

a) Uber: Uber is a widely-used ride-hailing app that operates in many cities worldwide. With just a few taps, you can request a ride and track your driver’s location in real-time. It’s a convenient and reliable option for getting around, especially in areas where taxis may be scarce.

b) Lyft: Similar to Uber, Lyft is another popular ride-hailing app offering transportation services in various cities. It allows you to request rides and pay for them directly through the app, ensuring a seamless and cashless experience.

c) Google Maps: While Google Maps is primarily known for its mapping capabilities, it also offers a transportation feature that provides real-time information on public transit routes, schedules, and estimated arrival times. It’s an invaluable tool for navigating public transportation systems in different cities.

d) Moovit: Moovit is a comprehensive public transportation app that provides detailed information on bus, train, and subway routes, as well as real-time updates and alternative routes. It covers transportation networks in cities around the world, making it a go-to app for commuters and travelers alike.

e) Citymapper: Citymapper is another reliable app for navigating public transportation networks. It offers detailed directions, live transit information, and even bike-sharing options in many cities. With user-friendly navigation and accurate travel times, Citymapper is a must-have app for getting around like a local.

f) Grab: Popular in Southeast Asia, Grab is a ride-hailing app that operates in multiple countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. It offers not only car rides but also motorbike rides, making it a convenient option for navigating congested city streets.

g) Transit: Transit is a user-friendly app that provides real-time information and trip planning for public transportation in over 200 cities worldwide. It offers detailed transit directions, live departure times, and even alerts for service disruptions or delays.

h) BlaBlaCar: If you’re looking for a more economical transportation option, BlaBlaCar connects drivers and passengers who are heading in the same direction. It allows you to share a ride with others and split the cost, making it ideal for long-distance travel or intercity journeys.

These transportation apps make it easy to navigate unfamiliar cities, find the most efficient routes, and even share rides with other travelers. Whether you prefer a ride-hailing service or reliable public transportation information, these apps ensure that you can get from point A to point B with ease.

Navigation Apps

Exploring a new destination often involves a lot of walking and exploring, which is where navigation apps come in handy. These apps provide detailed maps, directions, and even offline capabilities to ensure you never get lost. Here are some of the top navigation apps for travelers:

a) Google Maps: Google Maps is a trusted navigation app that offers accurate maps, turn-by-turn directions, and real-time traffic updates. It also provides features like Street View and satellite imagery, which can be invaluable for getting a feel of your surroundings.

b) Waze: Waze is a community-based navigation app that relies on real-time user input to provide the most up-to-date information about road conditions, accidents, and traffic jams. It’s perfect for navigating busy city streets or planning road trips.

c) Maps.Me: Maps.Me is an offline map app that allows you to download maps of entire countries or regions, so you can access them even without an internet connection. It provides detailed turn-by-turn directions and points of interest, making it ideal for travelers who want to save on data usage.

d) HERE WeGo: Formerly known as Nokia Maps, HERE WeGo is a navigation app that provides offline maps, turn-by-turn navigation, and public transit information. It also offers real-time traffic updates and suggestions for alternative routes.

e) Sygic: Sygic is a popular navigation app that offers offline maps, voice-guided navigation, and real-time traffic information. It also includes features like speed camera alerts and lane guidance, making it a comprehensive option for navigating new cities.

f) MAPS.ME: MAPS.ME, not to be confused with Maps.Me mentioned earlier, is another offline map app that allows you to download maps and use them even without an internet connection. It offers detailed maps, walking directions, and points of interest.

g) CityMaps2Go: CityMaps2Go is a well-regarded offline map app that covers thousands of destinations around the world. It provides detailed maps, walking directions, and even suggests popular attractions and local recommendations.

h) Apple Maps: For iPhone users, Apple Maps is a built-in navigation app with integration to Siri. It provides turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and even indoor maps for select locations.

These navigation apps ensure that you can navigate unfamiliar cities and explore with confidence. From turn-by-turn directions to offline capabilities, these apps offer a range of features to keep you on the right path.

Language and Translation Apps

Traveling to a foreign country can be exciting, but the language barrier can often pose a challenge. Fortunately, language and translation apps have made it easier than ever to communicate and understand different languages. Here are some of the best language and translation apps for travelers:

a) Google Translate: Google Translate is a popular and reliable translation app that supports over 100 languages. It allows you to translate text, speech, or even images with the use of your smartphone’s camera. It also offers offline translation for select languages, making it a valuable tool when you don’t have access to the internet.

b) Duolingo: Duolingo is a language learning app that offers interactive lessons in various languages. While it’s not a traditional translation app, it can be a great resource for learning the basics of a language before or during your trip. It’s a fun and engaging way to practice your language skills even when you’re on the go.

c) Microsoft Translator: Microsoft Translator is a versatile translation app that supports text, voice, and even conversation translations. It also offers a feature called “Phrasebooks,” where you can save commonly used phrases for quick reference. It’s a handy tool for bridging the language gap in different situations.

d) iTranslate: iTranslate is a translation app with a user-friendly interface and supports over 100 languages. It offers text, voice, and even website translations. It also includes features like dictionary definitions, transliteration, and voice recognition.

e) TripLingo: TripLingo is a language app that not only provides translation services but also offers cultural insights, local slang, and even audio lessons. It’s a comprehensive tool for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and communicate effectively.

f) Babbel: Babbel is another language learning app that offers courses in various languages. While primarily a language learning platform, it can also help with basic translations and vocabulary building for travel-specific situations.

g) SayHi: SayHi is a translation app that focuses on conversations and real-time translations. It allows you to speak or type in your native language, and it will translate and speak the translated text in the desired language. It’s perfect for having conversations with locals when there is a language barrier.

h) Lingvist: Lingvist is a language app that uses AI to personalize language learning and vocabulary building. While not a dedicated translation app, it can help you grasp the basics of a language quickly and confidently.

These language and translation apps are valuable companions for travelers, as they greatly assist in communication and navigating language barriers. Whether you need to translate signs, have a conversation, or simply understand basic phrases, these apps have got you covered.

Currency Conversion Apps

When traveling to a foreign country, dealing with different currencies can be confusing. Luckily, currency conversion apps make it easy to calculate exchange rates on the go. Here are some of the top currency conversion apps for travelers:

a) XE Currency: XE Currency is a popular app that provides accurate and up-to-date exchange rates for over 180 currencies. It allows you to monitor multiple currencies at once, set up notifications for rate changes, and even access historical exchange data.

b) OANDA Currency Converter: OANDA Currency Converter is a reliable app that offers real-time exchange rates for over 190 currencies. It also provides historical exchange data and offers offline access to the last updated rates.

c) Currency Converter Plus: Currency Converter Plus is a user-friendly app that offers exchange rates for over 160 currencies. It allows you to add multiple currencies for quick access and even supports Bitcoin conversions.

d) TransferWise: TransferWise is not only a currency conversion app but also a money transfer service. It offers competitive exchange rates and low fees for international money transfers, making it a convenient option for travelers who need to send or receive money.

e) Revolut: Revolut is a fintech app that provides various financial services, including currency conversion. It offers real-time exchange rates, allows you to hold and exchange multiple currencies within the app, and even provides a physical or virtual debit card for spending abroad.

f) XE Travel: XE Travel is a comprehensive app that combines currency conversion with travel planning features. It offers exchange rates, allows you to set a budget in your desired currency, and even provides travel expense tracking.

g) Currency Converter by Pocketools: Currency Converter by Pocketools is a straightforward app that provides exchange rates for over 180 currencies. It offers a simple and easy-to-use interface, making it ideal for quick currency conversions.

h) Currency – Simple Converter: Currency – Simple Converter is an intuitive app that allows you to convert between different currencies with ease. It provides real-time exchange rates, allows you to add and customize your currency list, and even offers a dark mode for nighttime use.

These currency conversion apps ensure that you can keep track of exchange rates and accurately convert currencies while traveling. By having quick and easy access to accurate conversion information, you can stay in control of your expenses and make informed decisions when it comes to currency exchange.

Food and Restaurant Apps

Exploring the local cuisine and finding great places to eat is an essential part of any travel experience. Food and restaurant apps can help you discover the best dining options, read reviews, and even make reservations. Here are some top food and restaurant apps for travelers:

a) Yelp: Yelp is a well-known app that provides user-generated reviews and ratings for various businesses, including restaurants. It allows you to search for restaurants based on location, cuisine, and price range, and read reviews from fellow travelers and locals.

b) OpenTable: OpenTable is a popular app for making restaurant reservations. It lets you browse through available dining options, filter by cuisine and location, and secure a table reservation with just a few taps. It’s particularly useful for busy restaurants or during peak travel seasons.

c) Zomato: Zomato is an app that offers a comprehensive restaurant guide with reviews, menus, photos, and even user-generated content. It covers restaurants in many cities worldwide and provides information on everything from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.

d) TripAdvisor: While primarily known for its travel reviews, TripAdvisor also features a robust restaurant section. You can search for restaurants, read reviews, and browse through photos to help you make informed dining choices during your travels.

e) HappyCow: HappyCow is a must-have app for vegetarian and vegan travelers. It offers a directory of vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores worldwide. It also provides reviews and information about each listing to help you find plant-based options wherever you go.

f) Michelin Restaurants: Michelin Restaurants is an app that focuses on establishments awarded with Michelin stars. It provides detailed information on Michelin-starred restaurants, including menus, pricing, and reservation options, making it ideal for travelers seeking exceptional dining experiences.

g) AllMenus: AllMenus is an app that offers an extensive directory of restaurant menus. It allows you to browse through menus, view prices, and even place food orders for delivery or pickup, making it a convenient tool for finding local dining options.

h) Eatwith: Eatwith is a unique app that connects travelers with local hosts who offer authentic dining experiences in their homes. It allows you to book immersive food experiences, such as cooking classes, food tours, or shared meals, giving you the chance to connect with locals and savor traditional cuisine.

These food and restaurant apps help you discover fantastic dining options, read reviews from fellow travelers, and even make reservations with ease. Whether you’re a foodie seeking culinary adventures or looking for vegetarian-friendly restaurants, these apps will ensure that you have memorable dining experiences during your travels.

Activity and Entertainment Apps

Exploring new destinations often involves finding exciting activities and entertainment options. Thankfully, there are numerous apps available that can help you discover and book a wide range of activities. Here are some top activity and entertainment apps for travelers:

a) TripAdvisor: TripAdvisor is a versatile app that offers a plethora of information on activities and attractions in various cities. You can read reviews, view photos, and even book tours or tickets for popular attractions through the app.

b) GetYourGuide: GetYourGuide is a comprehensive app that allows you to search and book a wide range of activities, from guided tours and sightseeing trips to adventurous excursions and cultural experiences. It provides detailed descriptions, prices, and customer reviews for each activity.

c) Airbnb Experiences: Airbnb Experiences offers unique and immersive activities hosted by locals. From culinary classes to outdoor adventures and cultural workshops, you can choose from a variety of experiences that allow you to connect with locals and explore their passions.

d) Viator: Viator is a well-established app that offers an extensive selection of tours, activities, and experiences in various destinations worldwide. It provides detailed itineraries, customer reviews, and the ability to book directly through the app.

e) Klook: Klook is an app that specializes in offering discounted tickets and activities across multiple travel destinations. It covers attractions, theme parks, tours, and even transportation services, making it a convenient app for saving money on activities.

f) Culture Trip: Culture Trip is an app that focuses on cultural experiences and local recommendations. It offers curated lists of activities, attractions, and hidden gems in different cities, allowing you to discover unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

g) Headout: Headout is an app that provides last-minute deals and offers on various activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking for tickets to a show, a guided tour, or even theme park passes, Headout offers discounted options even for spontaneous travelers.

h) Google Arts & Culture: Google Arts & Culture is an app that allows you to explore art, history, and culture from around the world. It offers virtual tours of museums, historical sites, and famous landmarks, giving you access to immersive experiences from the comfort of your smartphone.

These activity and entertainment apps provide a wealth of options to make the most of your travels. Whether you’re looking for guided tours, tickets to popular attractions, or unique local experiences, these apps will help you discover and book activities that suit your interests and enhance your travel experience.

Social and Networking Apps

Traveling is not just about exploring new places; it’s also about connecting with people and building meaningful connections. Social and networking apps can help you meet fellow travelers, connect with locals, and discover exciting events or gatherings. Here are some top social and networking apps for travelers:

a) Facebook Groups: Facebook Groups are a goldmine for connecting with like-minded travelers or locals in a specific destination. You can join groups focused on travel, backpacking, or even specific cities or countries to seek advice, share experiences, and potentially meet up with other travelers.

b) Meetup: Meetup is an app that allows you to discover and join groups of people with shared interests. It offers a wide range of activities and events, from hiking groups to language exchange meetups. It’s a great way to meet locals and fellow travelers while participating in activities you enjoy.

c) Couchsurfing: Couchsurfing is not just a platform for finding free accommodation; it’s also a social networking app for connecting with locals and fellow travelers. It allows you to meet up for coffee, attend events, or even join local Couchsurfing hangouts, fostering cultural exchange and friendship.

d) Travello: Travello is a social networking app specifically designed for travelers. You can join travel-related communities, connect with other travelers, and share your travel experiences and photos. It’s a great platform to find travel buddies or get insider tips from fellow globetrotters.

e) Tinder: While primarily known as a dating app, Tinder can also be used to meet new people and make friends during travels. The app allows you to meet up with locals or other travelers who may share common interests or simply want to show you around their city.

f) Instagram: Instagram is not only a platform for sharing beautiful photos but also a way to connect with locals and other travelers. You can find and follow local influencers or travel-related accounts in your destination to get inspiration, tips, and potentially meet up with like-minded individuals.

g) Twitter: Twitter can be a powerful tool for networking and connecting with people in the travel industry or other travelers. Engage in travel-related conversations, follow local accounts, and use hashtags relevant to your destination to connect with fellow travelers and discover events or meetups.

h) Backpackr: Backpackr is an app designed specifically for backpackers and solo travelers. It allows you to connect with other travelers, share travel plans, and even find travel buddies for specific destinations or activities.

These social and networking apps offer opportunities to connect with fellow travelers, meet locals, and discover exciting events or groups during your travels. Embrace the social aspect of travel and leverage these apps to create memorable experiences and forge new friendships.

Safety and Security Apps

Ensuring safety and security is a top priority when traveling. Thankfully, there are several apps available that can provide peace of mind and assist you in emergencies. Here are some essential safety and security apps for travelers:

a) Smart Traveler: Smart Traveler is an app developed by the U.S. Department of State that provides travel advisories, country-specific information, and emergency contact details. It allows you to stay informed about potential risks and sign up for alerts about safety and security issues in your destination.

b) TripIt: TripIt is a travel organizer app that allows you to centralize and access all your travel documents in one place. It can store copies of your passport, travel insurance, and other important documents securely. In case of theft or loss, you can quickly access your information and report it to the authorities.

c) bSafe: bSafe is a personal safety app that offers multiple features, including live location sharing, an SOS button, and an automatic alarm system. It allows you to notify your designated emergency contacts in case of an emergency or unsafe situation.

d) Find My iPhone/Find My Device: Find My iPhone (for Apple users) and Find My Device (for Android users) are built-in apps that can help you locate your lost or stolen device. By enabling these features, you can track and remotely lock or erase your device if necessary.

e) GeoSure: GeoSure is an app that provides safety scores and real-time safety information about different areas or neighborhoods. It utilizes crowd-sourced data and artificial intelligence to analyze safety risks, such as crime rates and political stability, giving you insight into the safety level of specific locations.

f) RedZone: RedZone is an app that provides real-time safety alerts about crime and other incidents in your vicinity. It uses GPS and social media data to provide up-to-date information and notifications, allowing you to stay informed about potential risks and take necessary precautions.

g) ICE Medical Standard: ICE Medical Standard is an app that allows you to store important medical information and emergency contacts directly on your phone’s lock screen. In case of a medical emergency, this information can be accessed quickly by first responders or healthcare professionals.

h) TripLns: TripLns is an app that provides offline maps and safety information for various destinations. It offers safety tips and emergency numbers, as well as the ability to share your location with trusted contacts. It’s a helpful tool for staying safe and informed during your travels.

These safety and security apps provide an extra layer of protection and assistance when you’re away from home. By utilizing these apps, you can stay informed about potential risks, protect your personal information, and have access to essential safety features in case of emergencies.

Travel Planning Apps

Efficient travel planning is key to a smooth and successful trip. Luckily, there are numerous travel planning apps available that can assist you in organizing and managing various aspects of your journey. Here are some top travel planning apps for travelers:

a) Tripadvisor: Tripadvisor is a comprehensive app that offers a wealth of information on flights, hotels, restaurants, and attractions. It allows you to read reviews, compare prices, and even book directly through the app. It’s a one-stop-shop for all your travel planning needs.

b) Skyscanner: Skyscanner is a popular flight search app that allows you to compare prices from multiple airlines. It also offers features such as fare alerts, flexible date searches, and the ability to book flights directly through the app.

c) Kayak: Kayak is a travel planning app that offers a range of features, including flight and hotel search, car rentals, and even trip itinerary management. It provides price comparisons, alerts for price drops, and the ability to track your flights.

d) Google Trips: Google Trips is an all-in-one travel planning app that automatically pulls in flight and hotel reservations from your Gmail account. It creates a personalized itinerary for your trip, suggesting activities, restaurants, and local attractions based on your destination and travel dates.

e) TripIt: TripIt is a popular app for organizing and managing travel itineraries. Simply forward your confirmation emails to TripIt, and it will automatically create a detailed itinerary for you, including flight details, hotel reservations, and even restaurant reservations.

f) Roadtrippers: Roadtrippers is an app specifically designed for road trips. It helps you plan your route, discover interesting attractions along the way, and even find accommodations. You can save your trip itinerary and access it offline during your journey.

g) PackPoint: PackPoint is a packing list app that generates customized packing lists based on your destination, travel dates, and planned activities. It takes into account weather forecasts and provides essential items you may need for your trip.

h) Hopper: Hopper is a flight search app that predicts and analyzes airfare prices to help you find the best deals. It provides recommendations on whether to book now or wait for a better price, and even offers tips on alternative airports or travel dates to save money.

These travel planning apps simplify the process of organizing your trip and ensure that nothing gets overlooked. From flights and accommodations to itineraries and packing lists, these apps provide the necessary tools to plan and execute a successful and memorable journey.

Traveling can be an enriching and thrilling experience, and with the help of technology and travel apps, it has become easier than ever to navigate, plan, and enjoy your trips. In this article, we explored a variety of apps that cater to different aspects of travel, from booking accommodations and finding transportation to translating languages and discovering local experiences.

Booking and accommodation apps such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hotels.com offer a range of options for finding the perfect place to stay, whether you prefer a hotel, vacation rental, or budget-friendly hostel. Transportation apps like Uber, Lyft, and Google Maps simplify getting around in unfamiliar places, providing real-time navigation and options for ride-sharing.

Language and translation apps like Google Translate, Duolingo, and iTranslate aid in overcoming language barriers, allowing you to communicate and understand different languages while exploring new destinations. Currency conversion apps like XE Currency and OANDA Currency Converter facilitate easy and accurate currency exchange, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the local currency’s value.

Food and restaurant apps such as Yelp, Zomato, and TripAdvisor help you discover and choose the best dining options, providing reviews, menus, and even the ability to make reservations. Activity and entertainment apps like TripAdvisor, GetYourGuide, and Airbnb Experiences offer a wide range of activities and attractions to enhance your travel experience.

Social and networking apps like Facebook Groups, Meetup, and Couchsurfing enable you to connect with fellow travelers, meet locals, and discover exciting events or gatherings. Safety and security apps like Smart Traveler, TripIt, and bSafe provide peace of mind and assistance in emergencies, ensuring you stay safe during your travels.

Lastly, travel planning apps like Tripadvisor, Skyscanner, and Google Trips help you organize and manage every aspect of your trip, from flights and accommodations to itineraries and packing lists. These apps streamline the planning process and ensure that you make the most of your travel experience.

In conclusion, the use of travel apps has revolutionized the way we explore and navigate the world. By utilizing these apps, you can enhance your travel experience, save time and effort, and have the tools you need at your fingertips. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, make sure to take advantage of these incredible resources and let technology be your ultimate travel companion.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

The 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring the World

These are our favorite digital tools for getting there, getting around, and getting a better travel experience.

There are a few essential travel apps you may already have on your phone: Google Maps, Kayak, a VPN app for secure browsing on shared WiFi, and your airline's app for mobile boarding passes and travel alerts. But beyond that, there are hundreds of apps that promise to make travel seamless and stress-free. How do you pick?

Here are 10 of the best, for everything from transit to translation. All are free for the basic version, and most are available for Android and iOS.

Google Play

Similar to Kayak, Hopper is a booking service for flights and hotels. And like Kayak, it offers an algorithmic fare prediction feature. But Hopper’s is scarily accurate; the company claims it picks the best price for a flight 95 percent of the time. The color-coded calendar helps select historically cheaper travel dates, and a price tracker can notify you when it’s time to buy.

LoungeBuddy

Airports—hectic, noisy, crowded—can suck. LoungeBuddy offers layover refuge by figuring out access options to nearby VIP lounges. Enter details like trip, service class, frequent flyer status and premium credit cards and LoungeBuddy will find eligible lounges you can access (for free or a fee, which you can pay through the app). American Express, which operates its own lounges, has agreed to acquire LoungeBuddy, so we hope that won’t limit features in future versions.

HotelTonight

This elegant app pairs hotels with last-minute room availability with travelers who need a quick deal on short notice. You can book well into the future, but HotelTonight’s primary genius is when you need that room tonight, because of an itinerary change or a previous reservation that got lost. Airbnb just agreed to purchase the app, so it’s unknown how that will change the focus in the future.

Mobile Passport

Services like Global Entry aren’t the only way to speed customs and immigration lines. This app submits your passport info and customs declaration electronically instead of the traditional paper form, which gets you into separate, expedited Mobile Passport lanes at 26 US airports and three cruise ports for faster processing. The premium Plus version ($15) features a digital scanner and encrypted storage (free users have to re-enter info each trip).

Google Translate

One of the most powerful translator tools available, Google Translate builds on a massive database of machine learning to create an unsurpassed vocabulary in 103 languages. It also offers a conversation mode with slightly fewer languages (32) than competitor iTranslate Voice, but the killer feature is you can take a photo of text for an instant translation – exceptionally handy with restaurant menus or transit stations.

Spotted by Locals

Instead of algorithms and big data, this highly regarded app uses info from actual locals, called Spotters, to create guides for 71 cities (mostly European, with some US destinations, plus Tel Aviv, Israel). Spotted By Locals steers clear of chains and tourist magnets for a quirkier, more intimate exploration. The app is free; you buy each city as a guide for a few dollars or Euro (prices vary by country). Best of all, it works entirely offline.

The genius of Musement is its integration of in-app purchases to skip ticket lines at popular tourist spots. But it also features locally sourced activity ideas like restaurants, bars and other nightlife, as well as museums, concerts, and special events.

Transit offers almost identical features (transit, ride hailing, bikeshare) to close competitor Citymapper, but with far more coverage for domestic travelers, with even some smaller cities (Stockton, CA; Grand Rapids, MI) covered. Transit has broader international coverage than CityMapper and even includes spots like Nairobi, Kenya, but unlike CityMapper, it has no coverage in Asia, and only covers Managua, Nicaragua for Latin America.

Most people know Strava as an app to log activities, but it can be a powerful tool to explore workout opportunities in a new city. Use Heatmap to look for popular riding and running routes, while Strava Local offers curated guides to more than 80 cities worldwide. You can also connect with group workouts like November Project by searching for clubs. Summit membership ($2/month/pack) offers added features for training, analysis, and safety.

For runners specifically, this powerful app offers more than 100,000 pre-set running routes in cities worldwide, or create your own. RunGo even partnered with hotels to create routes right from their lobbies. RunGo also offers turn-by-turn voice navigation to keep you from getting off route, and tracks stats like time, pace, elevation, and distance. Works with Apple Watch. Premium ($15/year) adds Strava sync and other features.

Joe Lindsey is a longtime freelance journalist who writes about sports and outdoors, health and fitness, and science and tech, especially where the three elements in that Venn diagram overlap.

.css-cuqpxl:before{padding-right:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;} Apps .css-xtujxj:before{padding-left:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;}

Twitter’s New 𝕏 Logo Is Meant for Typing Math

Why AI May Be at the Heart of the Reddit Protest

9 Ways to Instantly Free Up Space on Your Phone

Which Celebrities Still Have Twitter Checkmarks?

Who Is TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew?

The Best Weather Apps for iPhone and Android

18 Best Stargazing Apps to Download Now

How to Delete Your Twitter—And What to Use Instead

iOS 16 Lets You Say ‘Duck Off’ to Typos for Good

How to Delete All of Your Old Tweets At Once

The Fight Between RCS and SMS Messaging

• The Inventory

The 9 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Cities

You’ve landed somewhere brand new, and you’re ready to explore the new city, but you have absolutely no idea where to start. This is where your trusty smartphone comes in. There are loads of cool traveling apps you can use to help you find awesome spots around town. Here are 9 of our favorite apps for discovering new places in unfamiliar surroundings, beyond what the more well-known travel guides have to offer.

Related Content

1) spotted by locals.

No one knows a city like the locals do—at least that’s the idea behind the tidy Spotted By Locals app. It uses suggestions put forward by hand-picked spotters who know the best places in town and the areas you can ignore.

The app grew out of a city blog covering Amsterdam and now has guides for 66 cities across the world. You do have to fork out a few dollars ($3.99) for each guide, but that gives you all future tips added to the location as well, and it works offline.

Free, Android and iOS

One of the first things you might want to do in your new location is go for a run, but finding a good path can be tough. RunGo hits the rather neglected intersection of fitness apps and travel apps by giving you the best local routes to take in nearby sights.

There are featured routes in major cities and the option for users to upload their own preferred paths around town for others to benefit from. If you want to check out the interesting places in a city and top up your fitness at the same time, RunGo is for you.

3) Musement

Musement wants to be your perfect pocket guide no matter where in the world you happen to be. It covers neighborhoods, attractions, restaurants, bars and concerts, and covers 350 destinations worldwide, with “tailored local content” in 25 of the biggest cities.

There is a commercial element to the app in the form of event and reservation bookings, but it’s not pushy, and the app itself is clean and tidy one that’s simple to navigate around. Perfect for exploring, but as usual be wary of booking anything through a third party.

Maybe you don’t want to see any local sights in the place you’ve just landed in, and instead you just want to make a few new friends. If that’s the case, Meetup can help. After all, you can always ask your new buddies about the most interesting spots in town after you’ve been introduced.

The app is essentially a listing of local events and groups, so you can browse for something that looks like it’s up your street (literally and figuratively) and then get connected to like-minded souls in the area. Alternatively, get your own meetup started.

Simply put, Nearify plugs you into local events and gigs that you’re likely to be interested in. You can have a browse through what’s happening, pick something of note, and wander along to learn more about the city you find yourself in (and perhaps make a friend or two).

There are stacks and stacks of categories in here, covering all types of music, comedy, eating out and drinking experiences, so you certainly shouldn’t be short of something to do unless you’re in the middle of nowhere. You can get alerts about events in advance too.

6) Like A Local

Like A Local is another app that wants to bring you the best tips from the people that live there—as you may have guessed from its title—and it’s one of the most polished options out there, as well as one of the most comprehensive in terms of the cities it covers.

The focus is on fun stuff to see and do in your city of choice, and while there are some touristy selections here (which you might not mind), there are plenty of relatively off-the-beaten-track options to explore too. Individual city guides will cost you $1.99 each.

7) Instagram

You’ve probably heard of Instagram before, but have you ever used it as a travel aid? Tap on the search icon from the front screen, open up the Places tab, and you can browse through all of the popular and recent photos people are posting to a certain location.

Sure, you’re going to get a lot of selfies in there, but you might be surprised at how many interesting views, locations, bars and restaurants you uncover as well (everyone loves posting food pictures). It’s an alternative way to stumble across some places of note.

8) Apple Maps

While we’ve avoiding mentioning the usual travel apps pretty much everyone already knows about in this list, it’s worth ending with a nod to Apple Maps and Google Maps. New ‘exploration’ features are being added to these stock apps on a fairly regular basis.

Apple Maps for iOS 10 has a cleaner look and new filters for finding nearby places of note more easily: search for pretty much anything (like “bars”) then swipe across the bottom of the results list to narrow down your search (“wine bars” and “sports bars” for example).

9) Google Maps

Some Google Maps users are seeing a revamped ‘explore’ section that may well have gone live by the time you read this, but whatever version you’re on, it works really well: tap the GPS icon, then the Explore link at the bottom, to see what’s in your current vicinity.

The beauty of this Google Maps feature is the way you can drill down into “where the locals go” or “seats outside” or “great beers” depending on the feedback and reviews left by other Maps users. It can help you uncover spots you wouldn’t otherwise come across.

Advertisement

• Destinations
• Mexico Travel News

10 Best Travel TRIP PLANNER APPs To Have in 2024

In a fast-paced world where the stress of work and school is overwhelming, we all need a break to de-stress our minds. Traveling is one good way to take your mind off of stressful things – a breather. And a scheduled vacation gives you something to look forward to.

Whether it’s a local trip alone, a family holiday, or a getaway with your best friends, it just excites you to wish the day would come faster. 

10 Best Trip Planner Apps in 2024

The freeform app.

• TripIt: Travel Planner

Hopper – Flight & Hotel Deals

• Sygic Travel Maps Trip Planner

Roadtrippers: Trip Planner

Tripadvisor, travelspend: track travel expense & trip budget, tripcase – travel organizer app, travel planning apps for your next trip.

The Freeform app is an endless whiteboard that lets users add information from a variety of websites, photos, videos and files.

Because the boards are kept in iCloud, they can be accessed from any device anytime inspiration hits. While you and your travel companions plan your dream trip, the specifics can be shared with several individuals working together on the same whiteboard, making them an ongoing work in progress.

The Freeform app is free to iPhone users on iOS 16.2, iPad users on 16.2, and Mac users on Ventura MacOS Venture 13.1. 

Download the brand-new app here .

Read our full post: Apple Launches New Travel App Freeform – What to Know

Wanderlog Trip Planner App

Wanderlog is your all-in-one destination for planning future trips, sharing travel guides, and blogging past trips.

Its trip planning features are incredibly flexible: you can research destinations and activities, organize reservations by connecting your email, and map out a day itinerary with start/end times. You can also add notes and links all throughout.

Everything is stored offline so you can access your itinerary when traveling abroad. For road trips, it calculates the time and distance between places and exports them to Google Maps (and there are no limits to the number of stops you have on a trip!).

Plus, there’s a fun social component: collaborate with friends on itineraries, write your own travel guide, and blog about past trips. Wanderlog is available on the web and on your smartphone, so you can seamlessly plan while at home and on-the-go.

iOS  /  Android

TripIt: Trip Planner App

If you need any help organizing the dozens of itineraries, TripIt is the app for you. Users simply need to forward your flight, hotel, restaurant, and car rental confirmation emails to [email protected] and the app will create a free master doc for each of your trips. The best thing about this app is that you can get access to your itinerary anywhere, even without an internet connection. 

In addition, the Pro version will find you alternative routes for canceled flights and send out notifications for delayed flights, cancellations, and more from the airlines. 

iOS / Android

Rome2rio is a versatile travel planning app that simplifies the process of finding and booking travel options. It’s a handy tool for travelers seeking to explore various transportation choices between destinations. Rome2rio offers users a comprehensive view of travel options, including flights, trains, buses, ferries, and even driving directions.

Key features of Rome2rio include:

• Route Information: The app provides detailed information on different routes, including estimated travel times, costs, and the number of transfers required.
• Booking Integration: Users can book flights, train tickets, and other transportation options directly through the app, streamlining the booking process.
• Map Integration: Rome2rio integrates with maps, allowing users to visualize their travel routes and explore nearby attractions.
• Multi-Modal Travel: It offers options for combining various modes of transportation, making it easy to plan complex journeys.
• Accurate Pricing: The app provides real-time pricing information, helping users make informed decisions based on their budget.
• Offline Access: Rome2rio offers offline access to previously searched routes, which can be handy when traveling without a data connection.

Hopper is an amazing trip planner app to have on your phone. The app predicts airfares up to 1 year in advance, with 95% accuracy. It analyzes over billions of flight prices and hotels within the day – telling you whether to book your trip now or wait for just a little longer.

Here’s how it works: Key in your destination and a color-coded calendar will display the cheapest and most expensive date to fly. The app will then recommend you to either book the flight now or sit it out and wait for airfare to get cheaper. Also, you can filter predictions to custom-fit your trip – remove long layovers, extra fees, restrictions, and more. 

And if you worry about missing out the cheap flight bookings, don’t be! Hopper will send you a notification when fares have dropped to its lowest point.

SYGIC Travel Maps Trip Planner

Sygic Travel Maps , the new version of Sygic Trip Planner, is the first travel app to display all of the attractions and places a traveler needs to see and visit on a single map.

Sync your trips with the Sygic Travel app and find hidden gems in all cities you visit. The app boast a large database that allows you to find the best hotels, tourist attractions, museums, restaurants, bars, and stores wherever you go.

This mobile app also let you download offline maps and guides, which come in helpful when traveling to remote locations with poor or non-existing Wi-Fi.

It also has a dedicated section to worldwide places of interest for travel business. Get location information for individual cities, countries, continents, or the entire planet.

The app is available in 18 languages.

iOS / Android iOS

Planning on a cross-country road trip ? Roadtrippers is the app for you! Not everyone is fond of waiting long hours at the airport while sitting through your red-eye flight. Hit the road with your friends instead.

Roadtrippers provides everything you need to know on your road trip. Just enter your starting point, destination, and let the app do its work for you! From camping sites to rest stops, outdoor activities, exciting adventures along the way that you didn’t know existed. This app is the perfect buddy for your road trip regardless of your mode of transportation – a sedan, a rental car, or a huge family RV.

Most of us dream of going to places! But planning an amazing trip to places we have not been to is pretty hard as you don’t know where to stay, what to do, places to eat, and adventures to try. We mostly rely on recommendations, most of which are not even right, that we find online. 

TripAdvisor has over millions of travel recommendations on hotels, top dining spots, must-do experiences, and treasured gems to over 8 million destinations at your perusal. It is an all-in-one app that lets you book tables at restaurants and compares low prices on hotels and flights.

You can also follow friends and travel experts for advice that match your interests, watch videos, and read articles. In return, you can share your experiences, reviews, and helpful guides for other users too!

Setting up a budget for your trip is easy, however, sticking to it is hard. TravelSpend will help you with that. It starts with entering your budget and expenses over multiple days so you don’t go overboard. The app helps you in sticking to your budget effectively.

Being in another country is not a problem at all: enter your expenses in any currency and the app will automatically convert it to your home currency.

Track your travel expenses whether going on a solo around-the-world trip or backpacking holiday with your best friends. The app allows you to share your trip with your friends and track your expenses together. Pay debts, split bills, and check your balances – all in the app!

TripCase, a comprehensive travel organizer app, has emerged as a popular choice among travelers seeking a streamlined and efficient way to manage their journey details.

Here’s a breakdown of its key features and functionalities:

Centralized Itinerary Management : TripCase allows users to consolidate all their travel details, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, into a single, easily accessible itinerary.

Real-time Flight Alerts : The app keeps travelers informed with up-to-the-minute notifications on flight statuses, including delays, cancellations, and gate changes.

Itinerary Sharing : TripCase offers a sharing option that enables users to send their travel plans to friends, family, or colleagues.

Travel Directions and Maps : To aid navigation in unfamiliar locations, the app provides directions and maps.

Nearby Recommendations : TripCase offers recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and other services close to the traveler’s location.

Document Storage : For added convenience, the app allows users to store essential travel documents digitally, ensuring that important information like passport details, visas, and insurance policies are readily available.

Customizable Notifications : Users can customize their notification preferences, choosing what types of alerts they receive and how they are notified, tailoring the app to suit individual needs and preferences.

iOS / Android 

Hi, great List. I couldn’t travel without my Apps! I have one App you could check out =) Its called ” ATM Fee Saver” and it gives a list with all ATMs and their fees and limit. I found it super helpful and it really helped me to save some money. Best regards, Charlotte

Thank you for your suggestions! Those apps are very useful and various

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Tips
• Mobile Apps

The Best Road Trip Apps That Help You Find Cheap Gas, Avoid Traffic, and More

Download these before you hit the highway.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Carmen Martínez Torrón/Getty Images

Technology has revolutionized the way we travel in countless ways. Paper maps and GPS navigation systems have been replaced by Google and Apple Maps, old-school CDs by music streaming services, and guidebooks by apps that can notify road-trippers of roadside attractions in real time. One thing is certain: the smartphone has made road trips infinitely easier and, arguably, cheaper.

Whether you need a digital road trip planner to map out your next journey or something to help you avoid traffic jams, here are 11 of the best road trip apps to download ahead of your next adventure.

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers is one of the most practical and popular road trip planning apps out there. Maybe you want to see national parks or the quirkiest roadside attractions. Perhaps you want to stop for the night at an iconic or underrated hotel. You can plan your stops right in the app, adding up to three waypoints for free or 150 with a Roadtrippers Premium account. There are also Basic and Pro memberships that allot you 20 and 50 waypoints per trip, respectively. The higher-tier memberships allow you to collaborate with friends and family and use navigation. The app features lodging, sights, outdoorsy destinations, restaurants, activities, shopping, fuel, and more all around the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The app is free, but you have to upgrade to a membership plan to enjoy all the bells and whistles. The Basic plan costs $40 a year, the Pro plan $50 a year, and the Premium $60 a year. It's available on iOS and Android .

Google Maps

Every road-tripper needs a trusty navigation app in their arsenal, and Google Maps is consistently one of the most — if not the most — downloaded in the U.S. every year. Its dominance can be attributed to how comprehensive its data is, which allows it to generate the very best directions based on distance, road conditions, and traffic patterns.

Google Maps gives you route options and provides accurate estimates of how long it takes to get from A to B. Plus, you can plot several waypoints along your route — be it a mid-morning coffee stop or a hotel for overnighting (you can see reviews right in the app).

Google Maps is free and available on iOS and Android .

Waze is another one of the top navigation apps. With real-time updates that help you avoid traffic jams, construction, and more, it will have you navigating new cities and unfamiliar streets like a seasoned local. It's perhaps a little more proactive than Google Maps in changing up a route when problems arise, and that means Waze users should prepare for their drive to be a little unpredictable.

No one wants to spend hours sitting in traffic instead of exploring, so the fact that Waze collects data from other drivers to streamline the driving experience is a huge help. The app is free and available on iOS and Android .

Paying for fuel can eat up a good chunk of your road trip budget, but GasBuddy can save you a few bucks. The app crowdsources up-to-date fuel prices for more than 150,000 gas stations around the U.S. and Canada. The app also tells you how recent the submission is so you know whether it's outdated.

GasBuddy is not just helpful for finding cheap gas but also for finding gas stations in general (and parking), which can be difficult in foreign territory. The app is free and can be downloaded on iOS and Android . While using it, be a good road-tripper and submit gas prices you see as you travel.

Roadside America

Barry Winiker/Getty Images

The offbeat and kitschy roadside attractions you can find throughout the U.S. are often some of the most delightful parts of a road trip. The Roadside America app helps you find the most unique attractions worth stopping for, like the large sculpture of a cartoon mouse holding a cheese platter in Plain, Wisconsin — where else? — or the decidedly odd larger-than-life-sized three-way electrical plug that rests on a lawn in Philadelphia. The app features museums, murals, tours, quirky restaurants, and photo ops.

Roadside America costs $3 to download, which gets you access to one region in the app. You can purchase more regions for $2 or get access to all of the U.S. and Canada for an extra $7. The app is available only on iOS .

iExit Interstate Exit Guide

Knowing where to stop for road trip snacks, a drive-through latte, or a public restroom can be challenging with all the exit signs whizzing by at 70 mph, but iExit Interstate Exit Guide takes the guesswork out of it. The app will list which exits are coming up on your route, what's there, and what they offer — including food, lodging, fuel, and even hospitals. It pulls fuel prices from OPIS (the Oil Price Information Service) and displays Yelp reviews for businesses.

The app is free to download. Find it on both iOS and Android .

HotelTonight

Even if you've planned out all your stops ahead of time, you might find that you need to pull over for a night unexpectedly. Driving is tiring, and unplanned naps can be life-saving. HotelTonight can help you find accommodations in a pinch. The app offers day-of deals on unsold rooms, and the user-friendly interface means you can book a discounted room in minutes. There are well over 1,000 properties to choose from in cities all over the world, from Mexico City to Jakarta (in case you happen to take your road-tripping global).

It's free to download and available on iOS and Android .

If staying in a tucked-away A-frame cabin, a yurt, or a private guest house in someone's garden is more your travel style than bouncing between hotels, then Airbnb is the ticket. On the Airbnb app, you can search properties (millions in the U.S. alone) on a map and read reviews before you book, which you can do in advance or at the last minute.

The app features not just vacation homes but also activities, so if you're keen to experience a city like a local you can do so via a pottery class or a guided walking tour, for example.

The Airbnb app is free. You can download it on iOS or Android .

Patchareeporn Sakoolchai/Getty Images

Travelers who dream of camping out under the stars should download The Dyrt , a free app that helps you find tent, RV, and cabin sites across the U.S. One of the top camping apps on iOS and Android , it has more than a million registered users who submit reviews, pictures, and tips. On The Dyrt, you get real intel on campsites and a built-in community that makes camping on a road trip especially fun and safe. You can even book some of the campsites right on app.

The app is free, but there's a premium version for $36 a year that allows you to plan trips and search campsites while offline — convenient for remote regions.

What is a road trip without a perfect playlist? Whether you're keen to create a soundtrack of nostalgic singalongs, modern pop songs, or music inspired by your destination, you'll find even the most obscure tunes on Spotify , a catalog of more than 100 million tracks. When you tire of Taylor Swift, you can turn to podcasts or an audiobook to keep you company. Road trips are a great opportunity to delve into a docuseries like "Serial," an all-time favorite.

Spotify is free to download and listen to, but the ad breaks are annoying and streaming can chew through your phone data. A better option is to purchase a premium membership for $11 a month. It's ad-free and you can download music to listen to offline. The Spotify app is available on iOS and Android .

Electric vehicles are increasingly commonplace and great for more environmentally friendly road-tripping. The problem is often finding charging stations, as most EVs can go 100 to 300 miles before they need to be plugged in. PlugShare lists 700,000 charging stations across North America, Europe, and beyond. Users share their reviews of the stations, helping to guide EV drivers to the best, fastest, and most reliable charging spots.

PlugShare is free and available to download on iOS and Android .

5 Travel Planning Apps for Free City Guides and Recommended Itineraries

The next time you travel to a new city, check out these sightseeing recommendation tools that other guidebooks might overlook.

The internet is your best travel buddy today. The next time you travel to a new city, check out these apps and websites. You will find offbeat attractions, walking tours, and sightseeing recommendations that guidebooks might overlook.

These apps assume you have already picked your travel destination, so you are now researching what to do once you get there.

From renowned brands offering city guides to local experts giving their insights, there's a healthy mix for every type of traveler. Plus, you don't have to research in advance every time. Some of these tools will dynamically recommend items based on your current location.

1. Visit A City (Web, Android, iOS): Readymade Itineraries Up to One Week

A travel agent will whip up an itinerary of where you should go, what you should see, and so on. Visit A City already has that prepared, ranging from a day's plan to seven days worth of sights and attractions in most tourist destinations.

Each city has multiple guides that cover major sights, tours, and activities. For example, if you pick Barcelona, you'll get a 3-day guide for top attractions, or a 5-day guide for visiting Barcelona with kids, and so on. There's a surprising amount of variety on the website, letting you choose exactly the type of trip you want.

Any itinerary you choose will open with a map and a day-by-day schedule. You can remove or add items, and buy tickets in advance. Other tabs recommend alternative things to do and attractions. The full itinerary can be printed for free, or you can download it for offline use on the Visit A City app.

The website and the app are easy to use and shockingly thorough. Even if you're someone who loves planning your own trips, use one of Visit A City's itineraries as a starting point to make your job easier.

Download: Visit A City for Android | iOS (Free)

2. WhatsHere (Android, iOS): Map of Nearby Tourist Attractions

WhatsHere is a map-based travel guide. Search for a place or let it zoom into your current location, and the app will recommend myriad tourist attractions. As simple as that seems, there are a few features that make it even better.

For starters, WhatsHere has a list of categories to narrow down the places of interest to you: historic, museum, tourist attraction, landmark, trail, UNESCO heritage spots, and so on. Choose one or all, and see them in list form. Each place has multiple tags and you can see how far it is from your current location.

Alternately, open the Map view, which is where WhatsHere really shines. Each pin has a different color and icon, depending on its category. Tap it to get a popup with a brief description about why it's important, and to see how far it is from you. You can bookmark the place, view pictures from others, and even get a quick link to its Wikipedia entry.

Download: WhatsHere for Android | iOS (Free)

3. Spotted By Locals (Web, Android, iOS): Non-Touristy Guides From Locals

Spotted By Locals currently has guides for only 79 cities, spread across Europe, parts of Asia, and North America. But if a city you're visiting is featured on the website, then you won't get a better guide for offbeat tourism.

If you've hosted a tourist in your hometown, you know that there are must-see places that every travel agent will recommend, and a few local secrets that you'd like them to see. That's what makes this special. Each city's guides are written by locals who have lived there for some time.

You will find articles across a range of categories, or view them chronologically. The latter might be better since you get a local's recent recommendation, rather than a place they visited a long time ago.

Spotted By Locals also has mobile apps. While the app is free, each city's guide costs $3.99 to download. In return, you get offline maps and information, but you can see all of the same data on the website for free.

Download: Spotted By Locals for Android | iOS (Free)

4. Awayn (Android, iOS): Visually Rich Guides and Free Magazine

Awayn is a design-focused app with a good mix of features to find travel inspiration. Among the highlights is the free Awayn digital magazine, packaged as part of the app, which tackles one type of travel or region, and includes an interview too.

On the main page of the app, you can search for a city, browse by country, or look at "featured adventures" as recommended by Awayn's community. These featured adventures are actually quite cool and a good place to discover something new. I also liked the idea of browsing by country instead of a city because you might come across an activity that alters your itinerary.

If you like to browse by location, head to Map to find your current GPS coordinates. Awayn will highlight points of interest and travel attractions in your vicinity. The app deserves credit here for recommending places that you wouldn't find in most other travel guides.

Download: Awayn for Android | iOS (Free)

5. CityBook (Android, iOS): Booking.com's Travel Guide

CityBook is the new kid on the block, a product of one of the best hotel booking websites Booking.com . Currently, it hosts city guides for only London, Amsterdam, and Paris, but the number of cities will increase with time.

Depending on the time of the day, CityBook will suggest activities. For example, if you check the app in the morning, you'll find breakfast recommendations. Later in the day, it'll give you evening activities, shows, or bars. It's a nice mixture of historical and cultural places, food and drinks, and events.

The app is a combination of recommendations for places to visit as well as a ticketing office for places like museums. You can add places of interest to your "bucket list" and tick them off as you go about your travels.

Get a Truly Local Experience

One of the joys of traveling is to discover how people from a different culture or lifestyle go about their daily lives or celebrate major events. Most hotels and tour packages will offer some activities, but these are often tourist traps and don't feel genuine.

Instead, as the internet breaks down barriers, use an app. Whether it's enjoying a home-cooked meal with a local or partying with a native, check out these cool travel apps to get a truly local experience .

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 13 Best New York City Apps for Travelers

Jason C. Flynn

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

The city so nice they named it twice! New York is different things to different people, but two facts are certain. One, there’s always something to do in New York; and two, if you don’t get clued in on the when, where, and how of the city, you’ll find something you didn’t want to do sucking up all your free time (like waiting for a cab). And that’s where the following New York City apps can help.

Here’s a collection of New York apps that can help you stay ahead of the game on your next trip to the Big Apple. This is by no means a comprehensive list because, like New York itself, there is too much to investigate in one pass. But the New York City apps here should cover most of your general needs (and a few specific ones) to help you navigate your Gotham adventure.

The Best New York City Apps for Travelers: Transportation

Citymapper new york.

Unless you’re Spider-Man (and if you are, call me), you’re going be using New York’s impressive and sprawling bus and subway system to get around. Even if you’re from a metro area that has a mass transit network, New York’s can be daunting. The New York City app from Citymapper should be your first tool in using and understanding the public transit system. Not only does it have full maps that can be used offline, but it also shows real-time bus and train departures and lets you combine public transit with other modes such as bike shares and cabs.

Cost: Free Platforms: iOS, Android

Exit Strategy NYC

Sure, Exit Strategy NYC has both a complete subway and bus map for all five boroughs of the city, but as the name implies, its focus is about accessing these options. Exit Strategy also provides the locations to all station entrances and exits, making it easier for you to transition between street and subway. Add to that tips on where to stand on the platforms (a skill some longtime residents of the city still haven’t mastered) and you’ll be in great shape for all your subway hopping needs.

Cost: $3.99 Platforms: iOS, Android

You might be one of the few extremely … let’s say “brave” people who are willing to drive to New York and deal with the cough cough joy of parking there. That means you’re going to pay for parking, be it for a space, for a meter, or to get your car out of impound. ParkMe is one of the best New York City apps for this endeavor. It scans data for lots near your location to show you availability and rates, and lets you prepay and reserve a spot ahead of time. It may sound like I’m overselling how bad the parking is, but trust me: You’ll want to be prepared.

Want to zip around New York City on two wheels? Citi Bike is the city’s official bike-share program. The app will help you find the nearest docking station, save your favorite stations, purchase a day pass, and track your ride stats.

Cost: Free Platforms: iOS , Android

Use the ferry app for route maps, ticketing info, and schedules so you can explore NYC by boat and get around sans traffic. The ferries also offer a free Wi-Fi network.

The Best New York City Apps for Travelers: Attractions

Itourmobile.

This app uses GPS technology to locate your whereabouts and provide information on points of interest nearby, like a Sex and the City filming location or famous pizza shop. Download and use it when you’re walking around NYC, because you never know what’s right around the corner in this fascinating city.

Cost: Free or $1.99 per month to access subscriber-only tours Platforms: iOS, Android

Whether you’re at the museum or in your living room, you can get guided audio descriptions of the museum’s latest collections. There are also detailed visual descriptions for the visually impaired.

Cost: Free Platforms: iOS

Millions of people go to New York every year to see shows on and off Broadway. And while there are numerous ways to purchase tickets, few are as useful as the TKTS stands in Manhattan and Brooklyn. This app lets you avoid the lines, check ticket availability, and read reviews of shows. Known for both last-minute tickets and big discounts on day-of tickets, TKTS is a must-have for anyone who wants to take in a show on the Great White Way.

Statue of Liberty

View the famed NYC landmark through different augmented reality modes and brush up on your history before visiting. You also have access to an on-island audio tour with a map, as well as a podcast miniseries.

WhyzzExplorer

This app gets the entire family involved on a trip to New York City. Let this app guide you through quizzes, conversations, and food challenges as you and your loved ones get to know the Big Apple.

The Best New York City Apps for Travelers: Recommendations

Time out new york.

A staple for locals and tourists alike, Time Out New York can show you all the latest concerts, exhibits, events, and everyday happenings at any and all times. Using this New York app, you can check ticket availability, showtimes, and even reviews for those two shows you’re trying to decide between. (If I were you, I’d go for the one that isn’t likely to be touring next year.) If you’re on a budget or have simply spent too much money on Fifth Avenue, make sure to use the “cheap” and “free” filters on this most useful of New York City apps.

Tripadvisor

Create and share trips with points of interest with your whole group. The new Tripadvisor app is handy for mapping out all of the places that you want to go in one place. P.S. We have our own profile page to follow that has handy, pre-curated trips (and so does the tourism board, NYC Go ). Tripadvisor is SmarterTravel’s parent company.

Odds are if you do any traveling or dining, you’ve got Yelp on your smartphone. While Yelp isn’t always the best app for every location, for major cities like New York it certainly proves its value. Besides reviews, listings, maps, and menus for every type of food you can imagine, it’s a great backup for all the other apps on this list. You don’t always have to be a local to find good stuff in a new town.

Traveling? Consider Some of Our Favorites

Shop the look.

Checked Bag

More From SmarterTravel:

• New York City Travel Guide
• New York on a Budget: 25 Ways to Save on Travel
• Tipping in New York: The New York Tipping Guide

Jason Flynn is a freelance writer, editor, and geek of all trades. Follow him on Twitter @flynntendo .

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. This article has been updated since the date of its publication with the input of NYC Go .

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Greenland: Luxe, All-Incl. 11-Nt Exploration Small-Ship...

Swan Hellenic

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Shop and Save with Country Inns...

Patricia Magaña

Trending on SmarterTravel

10 Apps That Will Make The Most Of Your Vacation In 2024

I f you've ever spent time at a networking event, made small talk at your kids' soccer games, or scrolled through a dating app, you'll know that "travel" is something almost everyone will tell you they enjoy. Couple that with an attachment to our smartphones that borders on co-dependent, and it's no surprise to learn that travel apps are a hot commodity. Some of the best innovations in travel come in the form of apps. Staying in touch with people at home, travel planning, staying organized on the road, or connecting with other travelers? Not only is there an app for that, there are many apps for that. 

To help you sort through the plethora of what's out there, here are some travel-ready apps to make your vacation a blast. We've sourced suggestions from people who travel for a living and those who leave their local area only rarely, so no matter how often you jet-set, there is an app for you.

Read more: 12 Smart Gadgets You Didn't Know Existed

If your cell plan doesn't include international roaming, you can get slammed with steep fees for using mobile data outside your own country.

There are a few ways to get around roaming charges, including buying a local SIM card for the country you are traveling in, using a Wi-Fi stick , or investing in a dual SIM phone, like those from Samsung, Apple, or Google. One of the easiest and cheapest options though, is an eSIM app like Airalo . Airalo was one of the first in the eSIM game and continues to be popular with travelers. Fans of the app point to how easy it is to download and get started quickly, and how much it saves in fees. On the other hand, some users have noticed a discrepancy in how well it works in different countries. One reviewer on TrustPilot states "We do NOT recommend this plan given the extremely poor performance in Vietnam" despite noting excellent service in Hong Kong. 

Airalo is a paid service, available on the App Store and on Google Play.

Google Maps is often the default app travelers reach for when navigating new territory. It's a trusted resource for a lot of reasons, including the ease of finding reviews and info for even very small businesses. But it's not the only map app out there, nor is it the best in every situation. The main advantage of Maps.me over Google Maps is that it is based on user-generated information. Particularly for folks who are getting around on foot, this "boots on the ground" approach is excellent and more direct than reporting problems to Google Maps . It also means that if you find a cool place on your travels and want to make sure other travelers can find it, you can add it to a map.

Like Google Maps and other useful way-finding apps, you can download maps and bookmark points of interest for offline use, although the background information on locations is not as robust as on Google Maps. Maps.me also allows you to access various modes of transportation while offline, which Google doesn't. 

Maps.me is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Cash's position as king is increasingly precarious. On your travels, you'll find cashless options in places you might not expect. The mass availability of mobile payment platforms like Square means you may be able to whip out your phone or card at Swiss coffee carts or Mexican street vendors. Wise (formerly Transferwise) lets you move between currencies seamlessly. Wise lets you operate in 40 currencies, which is particularly handy if you are traveling to several different countries. They advertise charges that are less than the major banks. However, some users have complained about complications with money transfers, so be forewarned if you intend to use this app for sending money. 

Of note to travelers is the option to get an actual bank card that can function as an international debit card with a nominal conversion fee (not all bank cards can pay by debit in countries other than your home base.) Or, save a step and scan your phone to pay from your Wise account. 

Wise is available on the App Store and from Google Play. There is no charge to download the app, but fees are charged for some banking activities.

If you are going to be traveling from place to place on your vacation, you will want the Rome2Rio app on your phone. Enter your destination and departure location, and the app spits out the options and approximate costs for each leg of your journey. For instance, if you are in Edmonton, Canada, and want to get to the Thai island of Ko Yao Yai, the app will suggest six options, labeling the best, cheapest, and fastest combination of flight, minibus, and ferry. You can't purchase tickets through the app, although there are links to book accommodation that take you to Booking.com. Being able to purchase travel fares through the app would make things easier, especially if they were offered in a package, but the absence of that feature means you can investigate and compare prices from different booking operators , so we are putting it in the win column.

Rome2Rio is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Rick Steves Audio Europe

Rick Steves is recognized as a top voice in travel guides. His down-to-earth approach to travel has endeared multitudes of followers to him, spawning an industry of books, television shows, and a sprawling web presence that features how-to guides, articles, and an active travelers' forum. On top of all that, he has a free app for self-guided walking tours through many of Europe's top sights called Rick Steves Audio Europe . Reviewers of the app give it a high rating (4.7 on Google Play and 4.3 on the App Store) using superlatives like "This app is GOLD," and comparing the quality of the tours to paid audio tours. On the downside, it is difficult to sync the app on multiple devices, so if you are in a group you may all be at slightly different parts of the tour, which can be mildly annoying. There are a bunch of tour sites, with more added periodically.

The audio tours and accompanying maps are downloadable, so you don't need to worry about burning through mobile data or needing to rely on Wi-Fi. Rick Steve Audio Europe is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

How many trips come vividly back to life in your mind just by thinking about that one excellent bowl of Cacio e Pepe pasta or sun-drenched sip of a Paloma? Exploring a place through its flavors and discovering new spots to eat is a beloved part of travel. In Europe, TheFork (the French version is called LaForchette) is the go-to app for crowd-sourced restaurant reviews. Previously, the app also covered Australia, but at the start of 2024, it was announced they will be pulling out of Oz.

You can find Michelin-starred restaurants with months-long wait lists or little hole-in-the-wall spots by searching the name of the eating establishment, the city or neighborhood you want to eat in, or the kind of cuisine you are craving.

The app is worthy of its space on your phone just for the restaurant listings and reviews, but if you want to explore more of the capabilities, there are ways to expand its usefulness. You can make reservations, register to collect points, access discounts and specials at select spots, and pay through the app. TheFork is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Looking for a little love on the road? The Fairytrail app might be the ticket to romance (or ROAMance) you are looking for. Aimed at digital nomads and van life devotees, the app is a nice addition to the dating lives of travelers of all stripes. Members are evaluated and assigned a fairytale character similar to enneagram-slash-Myers-Briggs personality types, which is a new and novel approach compared with other iPhone dating apps or Android dating apps .

Because the app is focused on people with nomadic lifestyles, matches are location-independent. The idea is that users of the app will be willing to travel to each other to meet and date. There is a setting that allows an extra layer of matching: dream places to visit. If you so choose, before chatting with a match you need to have an overlapping "bucket-list" destination. Previously, this was an unavoidable step but became an optional setting after it was changed in response to frustration expressed by reviewers. The app is being redesigned in 2024 and soliciting feedback from users. Stay tuned, it seems more happy endings are in store! Fairytrails is free to download with in-app purchases and is available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Price Scanner And Converter

A very unpleasant aspect of vacationing in another country is coming home to a shocking credit card bill. Part of the problem is the tendency of holidaymakers to spend like money isn't real, but the other problem is how difficult it is to calculate prices into your own currency. Sure, you can come up with shortcuts to do quick math, but that gives you an estimate rather than an exact cost. To help, there are many different currency converter apps out there, with features like real-time rate calculation and offline capability. The somewhat clunky-named Price Scanner and Converter takes it one step further by using your phone's camera to scan prices and display them automatically in your preferred currency (out of 150 global currencies.) New iPhone cameras also have a similar capability, but it isn't as seamless a process as using this app.

This price scanning app isn't presently available on Google Play, although there are similar apps to be found. The reviews are pretty overwhelmingly mediocre, so if you are on team Android, your best bet may be to download a regular currency converter and enter in prices the old-fashioned way.

Downloading the Price Scanner and Converter is free from the App Store.

Searching through your emails for confirmations and itineraries isn't an efficient way to access your travel information. And good luck if you have used your work email for some of your planning and your personal email for others. What if you are offline when you need to find your tour details? Nightmare fuel. Tripit has created a simple user experience, allowing you to forward all those endless travel planning emails to be arranged into an easily accessible itinerary in a single spot, which you can access from any of your devices.

Other features of this include the ability to load PDFs, QR codes, and other travel documents to your Tripit travel folder. There are helpful navigation tools, like airport maps, neighborhood safety ratings, and nearby places. You can share your travel plans and sync them to your calendar. For $49 a year (or a free 30-day trial) you can upgrade to Tripit Pro for enhanced travel aid, including notifications to help keep you on track and on time. 

Tripit is free to download from the App Store and from Google Play, and you can upgrade to the premium Tripit Pro on the Tripit website or in the app.

Mobile Passport Control

The latest app from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol goes by the wildly creative name, " Mobile Passport Control ." It's a no-nonsense app with a no-nonsense name that allows users to streamline the customs experience. Rather than filling out declarations forms, users enter their information into the app and send it to border officials so they can access it as soon as they get to customs. You can do this immediately upon arrival, say as your plane is taxiing to the gate.

The app is for United States citizens and Canadians with a B-1 or B-2 visitor visa who are entering the USA at one of 33 American airports, 11 preclearance sites, and four seaports. It works in tandem with your passport, but it doesn't replace it.

As a bonus, some sites allow those with the Mobile Passport Control app to use their own (almost always shorter!) line or expedited Global Entry lines at passport control. You can enter family members on the same app and there is no approval process, just download and go.

A previous iteration of the app had a premium, paid version, but this is no longer the case. The app is free on the App Store and Google Play.

Read the original article on SlashGear .

11 Essential Apps for Travellers Visiting Paris in 2023

Are you excited about exploring the City of Lights? Paris is full of history , culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. But navigating it can be challenging, especially for noobies. Don't sweat. I've got the digital toolkit that will turn you from tourist to local in no time. Here are my absolute go-to apps for Paris in 2023 that help me nail every Paris trip. Whether you're navigating the extensive metro system, hunting down hidden gems, or grabbing those last-minute tickets to a chic fashion show, these apps are your Paris lifeline.

Best Apps for Paris in 2023

1. citymapper, 2. ratp app, 4. duolingo, 5. google translate, 6. google lens, 7. urbs travel app, 9. the fork, 10. mister good beer, best apps navigating paris with ease.

Navigating the streets of Paris can be a thrilling experience, with so many stunning sights around every corner. But to truly make the most of your time in the French capital, you’ll want to use the best apps to get around efficiently. These Paris travel apps will help you traverse the city’s complex public transport system and discover the quickest routes to your destinations, ensuring that your next Paris trip is a breeze.

Let’s dive into the top transportation apps that will make your journey through the City of Lights as seamless as possible, especially when you’re wondering how many bikes are available!

Citymapper is a must-have app for visiting Paris, offering optimized route suggestions, real-time updates, and offline maps to help you confidently navigate the city. This app not only covers the Parisian metro system, but also provides information on buses, trams, and even bikes! With Citymapper in your pocket, you’ll be able to find the best route and transportation mode for any journey, whether you’re heading to the Eiffel Tower or exploring the charming streets of Montmartre.

One of the most impressive features of Citymapper is its ability to adapt to your needs. Need to catch a train at Gare du Nord? Citymapper will tell you exactly where to board the metro to ensure you’re closest to your exit when you arrive. And if you’re worried about not having an internet connection, fear not! Citymapper offers offline maps, allowing you to navigate Paris without using data or relying on spotty public Wi-Fi.

It’s time to download Citymapper and make your trip to Paris as smooth as a perfectly baked croissant!

Download from Google Play or Apple App store .

As the official transportation app for Paris, the RATP App is your go-to source for everything related to public transportation in the city. Providing real-time transit times, route planning, and disruption alerts, this app is an essential tool for navigating Paris’ extensive metro, bus, tram, and RER network. With its user-friendly interface and accurate information, you’ll never have to worry about missing a connection or getting lost in the maze of the Parisian metro system.

The RATP App also offers an official map of the Paris metro system, making it easy to plan your routes and find your way around. Plus, you can receive notifications about delays and disruptions right on your phone, ensuring you’re always in the know about any potential travel issues. Don’t let the complexity of Paris’s public transport system intimidate you – download the RATP App and conquer the city with ease!

Last but not least, Moovit is a comprehensive transportation app that combines the best features of Citymapper and the RATP App. With Moovit, you can:

Access interactive maps

Get real-time information on buses, metros, and RER

Easily plan your journey

Avoid any surprises along the way

One of the most convenient features of Moovit is its ability to wake you up before your stop, ensuring you never miss your destination. So why not give Moovit a try and make your Paris trip even more enjoyable?

Download from Google Play or Apple App store.

Mastering the Language: Essential Language Learning Apps

While many Parisians speak English, learning some basic French phrases can greatly enhance your Paris experience and help you connect with locals. Plus, knowing the language will make it easier to navigate the city, read street signs, and understand menus.

To help you with this endeavour, we’ve compiled a list of essential language learning apps that will make mastering French a fun and enjoyable process. So let’s dive into these fantastic apps and get you speaking the language of love in no time!

Duolingo is a popular language learning app that makes learning French a breeze. With its gamified approach and adaptive learning platform, Duolingo keeps you engaged and motivated, turning language learning into a fun and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your French skills, Duolingo has something for everyone, including teaching you the perfect French word for any situation.

With the free version of Duolingo, you’ll have access to basic language learning features like organized, progressive lessons and fun, game-like activities. Looking for even more? The premium version, known as Super Duolingo, removes ads and unlocks additional features to enhance your learning experience.

So download Duolingo and start practising your French before your trip to Paris!

Google Translate is an indispensable tool for anyone travelling to a foreign country. This free translation app allows you to:

Translate text, speech, and even images in over 100 languages

Easily communicate with locals

Understand signs and menus

Learn new French words and phrases

Making it an essential companion for your Paris trip.

One of the most impressive features of Google Translate is its live camera translation function. Simply open the app, tap the camera icon, and point your device at the text you want to translate – voilà! Google Translate will automatically detect the text and provide an instant translation. This feature is particularly useful for understanding street signs, menus, and other written information during your Paris visit.

Another fantastic app for overcoming language barriers in Paris is Google Lens. This AI-powered image recognition technology uses your smartphone camera to translate text in real time. Much like Google Translate’s camera feature, Google Lens allows you to understand signs, menus, and other written information just by pointing your camera at the text. With Google Lens, you’ll never feel lost in translation during your Paris trip.

Uncovering Hidden Gems: Best Apps for Unique Paris Experiences

Paris is full of iconic attractions and world-famous landmarks. However, some of the most memorable experiences can be found off the beaten path. To help you uncover the city’s hidden gems and unique experiences, we’ve curated a list of apps that will guide you to lesser-known destinations and local favourites.

Urbs Travel App is a fantastic resource for uncovering off-the-beaten-path attractions, restaurants, and experiences in Paris. This app offers personalized recommendations based on your interests and preferences, ensuring you discover hidden gems tailored to your tastes.

The app offers audio descriptions and bespoke routes, with smart city guides written by cultural experts and performed by professional voice-over artists. Whether you’re looking for a cosy neighbourhood bistro or an underground art gallery, Urbs Travel App will help you explore Paris like a local.

Say goodbye to long lines at cultural landmarks with Tiqets, the app that opens doors to culture. You'll never miss out on your dream Paris destinations with instant ticket delivery and Skip the Line options.

The app is your trusted guide, offering a comprehensive list of Paris's must-see attractions and hidden gems. From planning your itinerary to flexible booking options, Tiqets ensures your Paris trip is hassle-free and enriching. With Tiqets in your pocket, you'll feel more prepared and connected to the vibrant culture of London.

Download Tiqets App

Satisfy Your Appetite: Best Apps for Dining in Paris

Paris is a gastronomic paradise, with an abundance of world-class restaurants, cosy bistros, and charming cafes. To help you make the most of your culinary journey, we’ve compiled a list of the best apps for dining in Paris. These apps will help you find the perfect dining experience and offer restaurant reservations, reviews, and exclusive discounts.

So let’s dig into these delicious apps and satisfy your appetite!

The Fork is the ultimate app for dining in Paris, allowing you to book tables, read reviews, and access exclusive discounts at a wide range of Parisian restaurants. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive list of dining options, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a casual lunch with friends.

What sets The Fork apart from other dining apps is its exclusive discounts and promotions. By booking through the app, you can:

Save up to 50% off your meal at participating restaurants

Earn points for each reservation through the loyalty program

Redeem points for future discounts

So, not only will you discover amazing dining options in Paris, but you’ll also save money while doing so!

For beer enthusiasts visiting Paris, Mister Good Beer is a must-have app. This handy app helps you find budget-friendly bars with quality brews in the city. With reviews and recommendations from fellow beer lovers, you can trust that you’re getting the best experience possible. So raise a glass and say “Santé!” to discover the best craft beer Paris has to offer.

Yelp is invaluable for discovering amazing restaurants, bars, and cafes in Paris. With user-generated reviews and ratings, you can get a feel for the atmosphere, service, and quality of food before you even step foot inside. Plus, it is a great value. Yelp’s custom search filters and themed lists make it easy to find the perfect dining experience based on your preferences and budget.

In conclusion, visiting Paris in 2023 will be an unforgettable experience, thanks in large part to the amazing apps we’ve introduced in this blog post. From navigating the city’s complex public transport system and learning the French language, to uncovering hidden gems and finding the best dining experiences, these apps will help you make the most of your Paris trip. So don’t wait – start planning your dream Paris adventure today and make sure to download these essential apps for a truly magical and memorable journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

What app do i need to travel paris.

If you’re traveling to Paris, then RATP is the perfect app for you! It provides users with detailed information on transportation timetables and next departures - everything you need for a hassle-free experience in the City of Lights.

RATP is easy to use and provides up-to-date information on the Paris Metro, RER, bus, tram, and Noctilien networks. It also has an interesting history.

What are the top transportation apps for navigating Paris?

Don’t worry about navigating Paris - Citymapper, RATP App, and Moovit are the perfect apps to get you from point A to point B!

Which language learning apps are essential for visiting Paris?

You can’t miss the opportunity to learn some French before visiting Paris – Duolingo, Google Translate, and Google Lens are all essential language learning apps for a great experience! These apps are easy to use and can help you understand the language and culture of Paris. They can also help you communicate with locals and make the most of your trip. Duolingo is a great app for learning French. It offers a variety of lessons.

How can I discover unique and hidden gems in Paris?

Explore the backstreets of Paris, and don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path – you may stumble upon delightful surprises like Paris’s secret gardens, flea markets, hidden bars, and other fascinating places. Our Urbs Travel app's Paris content will also help you find hidden gems based on your interests!

Related Posts

A Short History of Paris (& 66 Paris Cultural Attractions)

13 Essential Apps for Travellers Visiting London in 2023

11 Essential Apps for Travellers Visiting Barcelona in 2023

There may be affiliate links on this page! That just means if you click on a link, find a ticket you like and buy it, we might make some cash. Don’t worry, you won’t pay any extra – sometimes you might even get a tasty discount. It’s a win for us and a win for you too!

Download the app and start exploring

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Urbs app today and bring your travel dreams to life.